Stick weight support

ABSTRACT

Embodiments of a stick weight assembly for use within a shaft of a golf club, wherein the shaft includes a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, the stick weight assembly comprising: a stick weight comprising: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a top end and a bottom end, wherein the top end defines an outer top end geometry; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the top end of the rod.

CROSS REFERENCE PRIORITIES

This claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/387,072 filed Dec. 12, 2022, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/377,510 filed Sep. 28, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/366,130, filed Jun. 9, 2022, the contents of which are fully incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to golf equipment, and more particularly to golf clubs.

BACKGROUND

A typical golf club head can include weighting features to improve the center of gravity (CG) and the moment of inertia (MOI) of the club head. These features can be located throughout the club head, and in some club heads, they can be located within the club head hosel. One type of weighting feature is a tip weight; a short cylindrical weight, that is positioned within the hosel and abuts the shaft tip end. Another type of weighting feature is a stick weight: a long, thin, cylindrical weight located mostly within the shaft. A stick weight can be a desirable weighting feature as it consumes only a small area within the club head hosel. Therefore, the stick weight can allow for a greater shaft insertion depth, providing additional surface area for bonding between the shaft and the club head hosel. Further, because the stick weight consumes a smaller area within the hosel, as opposed to the more traditional tip weight, the length of the hosel and the hosel outer diameter can be decreased. This saves discretionary mass that can then be redistributed throughout the club head. This redistribution then leads to more favorable weight distribution throughout the club head and results in a club head with a lower CG in the Y axis, higher MOI and therefore a more forgiving club head. However, the stick weights of prior art are insufficiently supported within the shaft, causing undesirable vibrations. Such vibrations can produce undesirable sound and/or feel at impact. Further, these vibrations may cause the stick weight to damage the inside portion of the shaft and hosel, or more commonly cause damage to the stick weight itself.

A known method to dampen undesirable vibrations is to provide a simple fork-like structure at the end of a steel shaft stick weight, as shown in FIG. 2 . The fork-like structure protrudes from the end of the stick weight that is positioned inside the shaft and presses against an inner surface of the shaft to provide support. However, this fork-like structure is not universal and therefore difficult to implement over a wide variety of shaft internal diameters. Further, the vibrations, as discussed above, can cause the top portion of the fork-like structure to break off and move freely within the shaft, resulting in an undesirable sound and feel. Another method to address rattling involves placing epoxy along the stick weight. This involves an excessive amount of epoxy being placed along the length of the stick weight and within the hosel in order to prevent any movement. To successfully implement this method, the club head must be carefully positioned to ensure the epoxy remains in a desired position while the epoxy dries. This process is not reliable, cannot be consistently repeated, and increases the complexity and time required for assembly. Therefore, there is a need in the art for a universal stick weight assembly that can prevent vibrations within the shaft and can be installed in variety of shafts with variable internal diameters.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a graphite shaft stick weight according to prior art.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a fork-like structure for use with a steel shaft stick weight according to prior art.

FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 3B illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight support, provided in the stick weight support assembly of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight support of FIG. 3B.

FIG. 4A illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 4B illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight support provided in the stick weight support assembly of FIG. 4A according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5A illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight assembly of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight support provided in the stick weight support assembly of FIGS. 5A and 5B.

FIG. 5D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight support of FIG. 5C.

FIG. 6A illustrates a front view of a stick weight according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 6B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a steel stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 6C illustrates an orthogonal view of the stick weight support provided in the stick weight assembly of FIG. 6B.

FIG. 6D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight support of FIG. 6C.

FIG. 7A illustrates a front view of the stick weight provided in the stick weight assembly of 7B.

FIG. 7B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 7C illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight support provided in the stick weight assembly of FIG. 7B.

FIG. 7D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight support of FIG. 7C.

FIG. 8A illustrates a front view of the stick weight provided in the stick weight assembly of 8B.

FIG. 8B illustrates a front view of a stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 8C illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight support provided in the stick weight assembly of FIG. 8B.

FIG. 8D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight support of FIG. 8C.

FIG. 9A illustrates a front view of the stick weight provided in the stick weight assembly of 9B.

FIG. 9B illustrates a front view of a stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 9C illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight support provided in the stick weight assembly 9B.

FIG. 9D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight support of FIG. 9C.

FIG. 10A illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 10B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight support provided in the stick weight assembly of FIG. 10B.

FIG. 11A illustrates a front view of a stick weight provided in the stick weight assembly of FIG. 11B.

FIG. 11B illustrates an cross-sectional view of a stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 12A illustrates an orthogonal view of a stick weight provided in the stick weight assembly of FIG. 12B.

FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the stick weight assembly according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 12C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stick weight support provided in the stick weight assembly of FIGS. 12A and 12B.

FIG. 12D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a stick weight support provided in the stick weight assembly of FIGS. 12A and 12B.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. The same reference numerals in different figures denotes the same elements.

DESCRIPTION

Described herein are various embodiments of stick weight assemblies that can be easily positioned within a variety of shafts and further stabilize the stick weights within the shafts using stick weight supports (here after referred to as “the SW support”. The stick weight assemblies, as described herein, allow for the use of a stick weight while ensuring ease of manufacturing and improved durability. As discussed above, a stick weight is positioned mostly within the shaft with a mere fraction residing within the hosel bore, while a traditional tip weight is solely positioned within the hosel bore. Therefore, the stick weight takes up a fraction of the space a more traditional tip weight would require. This reduction in space grants the freedom to redesign the hosel of the golf club, shortening the hosel and decreasing the hosel outer diameter. More specifically, the space saved by redesigning the hosel saves discretionary mass that can be redistributed elsewhere in the club head. The saved discretionary mass can then be redistributed throughout the golf club head. This can allow for a golf club head with a higher moment of inertia (MOI) and a lower center of gravity (CG).

More specifically, the stick weight assembly, comprises an improvement over tip weight assemblies and durability, allowing to successfully implement the stick weight assemblies in a wide variety of shafts with a wide variety of internal diameters. The ability to successfully implement the stick weight assembly, as described herein, further allows for the shortening of the hosel. The outer diameter of the hosel can be decreased by up to 0.040 inches and the height of the hosel can be decreased by up to 0.210 inches. These changes in hosel dimensions can save up to 13 grams of mass. The saved mass can then be redistributed thought the club head as desired to improve performance characteristics, such as increasing MOI and decreasing the CG_(y). The increase in MOI and decrease in CG leads to an overall increase in ball speed and therefore an increase in carry distance.

The stick weight assembly, as described herein, can be permanently positioned partially within a tip end of the golf club shaft. The stick weight assembly can comprise a stick weight and a SW support. Further, the stick weight can comprise a disk and a rod. The disk can abut the shaft tip end and the rod can extend into the shaft. The rod can comprise a smaller diameter than the inner diameter of the shaft to allow the rod to be positioned within the shaft. The disk can be secured near the shaft tip end, but the difference in the diameters of the rod and the shaft may still cause the rod to rattle within the shaft. To address the rattling, various embodiments of SW support have been developed.

In some embodiments, the stick weight can be formed from a single material. In such embodiments, the stick weight can be selected from a group consisting of aluminum, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, tungsten, and tungsten alloy. in one exemplary embodiment, the stick weight is a tungsten alloy. In other embodiments, the stick weight material can comprise a stick weight density. In such embodiments, the stick weight density can be between 2 Mg/m³ and 20 Mg/m³. In one exemplary embodiment, the stick weight density is 10.68 Mg/m³.

In some embodiments, the SW support can be formed from a single material. In such embodiments, the SW support can be formed for a flexible TPE material from between 10 shore A hardness to 90 shore A hardness. In some embodiments, the hardness can be between 10 shore A hardness and 20 shore A hardness, between 20 shore A hardness and 30 shore A hardness, between 30 shore A hardness and 40 shore A hardness, between 40 shore A hardness and 50 shore A hardness, between 50 shore A hardness and 60 shore A hardness, between 60 shore A hardness and 70 shore A hardness, between 70 shore A hardness and 80 shore A hardness, or between 80 shore A hardness and 90 shore A hardness.

In some embodiments, the flexible TPE material can be selected from a group consisting of Thermoplastic Styrene block copolymers (TPS or TPE-s), Thermoplastic polyolefinelastomers (TPO or TPE-o), and Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV or TPE-v). The flexible TPE material can have a much greater elastic limit than the stick weight material. The flexible TPE material can allow the SW to be compressible as it is inserted into the shaft tip end. The flexible TPE material can then expand to its original shape creating a press fit/interference between the stick weight assembly and the shaft inner surface. The interference between the SW support and the shaft inner surface, as well as the mechanical properties of the flexible TPE material can provide support to the stick weight and dampen the vibration produced at impact of the club head with a ball.

In other embodiments, the stick weight can be formed from a first material and a second material. The first material can be a flexible TPE material, as discussed above. The second material can be metal. The second material can be selected from a group consisting of aluminum, aluminum alloy, stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, tungsten, or tungsten alloy. In further embodiments, the stick weight can be formed from a single material that is a combination of aluminum, stainless steel, tungsten, and a flexible TPE material.

The SW supports described herein can be designed to accommodate a variety of shafts and stick weights. As discussed in more detail below, the SW support is designed to compress as needed to fit snuggly within a variety of shafts with a variety of internal diameters. As discussed above, the SW supports can stabilize the stick weight when positioned within the shaft. Thus, the SW support can prevent undesirable rattling, improving the durability of the stick weight assembly. The SW support further can remove the need for epoxy, creating a fast and easily repeatable method for installing the stick weight assembly within the shaft. The improved method for installation, as well as the improved durability, can allow the stick weight assembly to be used with a wide variety of shafts having different shaft diameters. For example, the SW assembly can be used with graphite and steel shafts for irons, as well as shafts for woods, hybrids, drivers, and putters.

The ability to use the stick weight assembly with a wide variety of shafts allows for an increased shaft insertion depth, providing additional surface area for bonding between the shaft and the club head hosel. Further, because the stick weight consumes a smaller area within the hosel, as opposed to the more traditional tip weight, the length of the hosel can be decreased. This saves discretionary mass can then be redistributed throughout the club head. The saved discretionary mass can be used to increase MOI providing a more forgiving club head.

I. Graphite Stick Weight Assemblies

The golf club described herein can comprise a club head, a graphite shaft, a graphite stick weight assembly, and a grip. The club head can comprise a body having a strikeface, a toe, a heel opposite the toe, a sole, and a top rail or crown opposite the sole. The club head can further comprise a hosel. The hosel can be located near the heel of the club. The hosel can comprise a hosel bore. The hosel bore can comprise t of a bore positioned at a top edge of the hosel and extending downward towards the body of the club head. The shaft can comprise a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, a shaft tip end proximate the club head, and a grip end proximate the grip. The shaft tip end can be received within the hosel bore. The shaft can define a longitudinal axis that runs from a geometric center of the tip end to a geometric center of the grip end. The shaft can be a hollow cylindrical object, wherein the diameter is variable. The diameter is smallest at the tip end and largest at the grip end. The shaft can define an opening near the tip end configured to receive the stick weight assembly.

The stick weight assembly can comprise a stick weight and a SW support. In some embodiments, the stick weight and the SW support can be integral. In other embodiments, the stick weight and the SW support can be separate components. In such embodiments, the SW support can be molded as a separate component and then positioned on the stick weight, or the SW support can be over-molded, or injection molded directly on and in conjunction or crosslink to or around the stick weight.

The SW support, as described in detail below, can prevent undesirable rattling, improving the durability of the stick weight assembly. Further, the SW support can remove the need for epoxy, creating a faster and easily repeatable method for installation. The improvements in durability and method of installation can allow the stick weight assembly to be used with a variety of graphite shafts, which are known to have a wide range of internal shaft diameters. Thus, the stick weight assembly can add mass to the hosel portion of the golf club while decreasing the amount of space occupied in the hosel. The reduced space permits shortening of the hosel, saving discretionary mass and allowing the saved discretionary mass to be redistributed throughout the club head. The redistribution of the saved discretionary mass can permit greater freedom to manipulate the MOI and CG of the golf club. This permits for improvement of characteristics of the golf club head, such as launch angle, forgiveness, spin, and ball speed produced by the club head.

1. Graphite Stick Weight

The stick weight and corresponding SW supports can be in various design embodiments discussed below. One exemplary embodiment is a cylindrical design of the stick weight. Referring to FIG. 3A-5D, the stick weight 330 or 430 can comprise a cylindrical rod 303 or 403 (herein “the rod”) and a disk 304 or 404. The rod 303 or 403 can comprise a top end 301 or 401 and a bottom end 302 or 402. The bottom end of the rod 302 or 402 can be coupled to the disk 304 or 404, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A, 4A, and 5A. The stick weight 330 can be received within the shaft 20 near the shaft tip end 10 such that the top end of the rod 301 or 401 is positioned within the shaft 20, and the disk 304 or 404 can abut the shaft tip end 10. The rod 303 or 403 can be fully encapsulated within the shaft 20, and the disk 304 or 404 can protrude into the hosel 40 from the shaft tip end 10.

The rod 303 or 403 can define a rod length, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20 from the top end 301 or 401 to the bottom end 302 or 402. The rod length can be between 0.70 inches to 2.70 inches. In some embodiments, the rod length can be between inches and 0.90 inches, between 0.90 inches and 1.10 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.30 inches, between 1.30 inches and 1.50 inches, between 1.50 inches and 1.70 inches, between 1.70 inches and 1.90 inches, between 1.90 inches and 2.10 inches, between 2.10 inches and 2.30 inches, between 2.30 inches and 2.50 inches, or between 2.50 inches and 2.70 inches. In some embodiments, the rod length can be below 2.70 inches, below 2.40 inches, below 2.10 inches, below 1.80, below 1.50 inches, below 1.20 inches, or below 0.90 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 2.11 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 0.90 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 1.060 inches. The rod length can affect both the weight of the stick weight 330 as well as the durability. As the rod length increases, so does the weight and the susceptibility to breaking. The increased rod length can increase the vibrational forces transferred from the shaft 20 to the stick weight 330 at impact. The elevated levels of vibrational forces can lead to failure of the stick weight 330. However, the SW support 310, 320, 410, as described below, can provide an additional means of support. Such that the SW support causes interference between the shaft bore and the stick weight 330. Further, the design and material of the SW support 310, 320, 410, as discussed in depth below, can allow the SW 310, 320, 410 support to absorb some if not all of the vibrations created at impact, thereby allowing the use of a longer and heavier stick weight, if desired.

The stick weight assembly 300 or 400 can comprise a weight. As discussed above, the rod length can be the key factor in the weight of the stick weight assembly. The weight can be between 1 gram and 15 grams. As the rod length of the stick weight 330 increases so does the weight. In some embodiments, the weight can be between 1 gram and 3 grams, between 3 grams and 5 grams, between 5 grams and 7 grams, between 7 grams and 9 grams, between 9 grams and 11 grams, between 11 grams and 13 grams, or between 13 grams and 15 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be less than 15 grams, less than 10 grams, or less than 5 grams. While the size of the disk can also impact the weight, it is less of a factor than the rod length.

The rod 303 or 403 can further define a rod diameter measured across the surface of a rod cross-section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The rod 303 or 403 can be sized for insertion into the shaft tip. The rod diameter can be between 0.07 inches and 0.17 inches. In some embodiments, the rod diameter can be between 0.07 inches and 0.08 inches, between 0.08 inches and 0.09 inches, between 0.09 inches and 0.10 inches, between 0.10 inches and 0.11 inches, between 0.11 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.16 inches, or between 0.16 inches and 0.17 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod diameter is 0.12 inches. The rod diameter can be selected to ensure the entirety of the rod can be positioned within the shaft bore. The ability to position the entirety of the rod within the shaft bore frees up space in the hosel 40, increasing the surface area for bonding, and allowing the hosel 40 to be shortened, if desired. Again, the SW support can overcome smaller diameters resulting in circumference of the cylindrical weight that could be smaller than the circumference of the shaft. The SW support helps to “pinch” the rod as to prevent rattling in wider shafts.

As discussed above, the disk 304 or 404 can be coupled to the rod bottom end 302 or 402 and sized to abut the shaft tip end 10. The disk 304 or 404 can define a disk diameter. The disk diameter can be measured across a surface of the disk 304 or 404 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and inches. In some embodiments, the disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.25 0.40 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, or between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.35 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.32 inches. The disk 304 or 404 can be sized to prevent full insertion of the stick weight assembly 300 or 400 into the shaft bore. This will provide ease of manufacturing and ensure the stick weight assembly 300 or 400 can be quickly and consistently positioned within the shaft tip end 10.

Further, the disk 304 or 404 can define a disk thickness. The disk thickness can be measured along the longitudinal axis. The disk thickness can be between 0.025 inches and 0.125 inches. In some embodiments, the disk thickness can be between 0.025 inches and 0.050 inches, between 0.050 inches and 0.075 inches, between 0.075 inches and 0.100 inches, or between 0.100 inches and 0.125 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness is 0.070 inches. The disk thickness can be sufficiently thick to provide the necessary support to the rod 303 or 403, and sufficiently thin to ensure there is the necessary bonding surface between the shaft tip end 10 and the hosel bore. As discussed above, the disk 304 or 404 can be sized to prevent full insertion of the stick weight assembly 300 or 400 into the shaft bore.

a) Cap Stick Weight Support

Described herein is a cap stick weight support comprising a cavity that has geometry complementary to the stick weight rod. Further, the cap can comprise ridges to help position the stick weight within the shaft. In some embodiments, the SW support 310 can comprise a cap-like geometry. The cap-like SW support 310 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the cap” or “the cap SW support”) ensures the stick weight 330 is fully secured within the shaft bore. The cap SW support 310 can be positioned on the top end of the rod 301 or 401, wherein the stick weight 330 and the cap SW support 310 are positioned within the shaft 20, as illustrated in FIG. 3A. The cap SW support 310 can comprise a first end 314, a second end 315, and an outer surface 316. The cap SW support 310 further defines a cavity 317 extending from the second end 315 toward the first end 314. The cavity 317 comprises a depth that can be measured along the longitudinal axis. The cavity 317 can be configured to receive the top end of the rod 301 or 401. The cavity 317 can define a cavity geometry complementary to the rod top end geometry.

The cap SW support 310 further can comprise an outer diameter, an inner diameter, a first portion 311, a second portion 312, and a thickness. The first portion 311 can comprise a dome. The dome can guide the insertion of the cap SW support 310 into the shaft 20 causing a press fit/pinch to hold the rod in place despite providing a smaller diameter over the shaft internal diameter. The second portion 312 can comprise a cylindrical body distributing an area of engagement of the cap SW support 310 against the inside of the shaft 20. The cap outer diameter and cap inner diameters can vary to accommodate a variety of shafts internal diameters. The cap outer diameter and cap inner diameters further can be selected to ensure the cap SW support 310 fits snugly over the top end 301 or 401 and within the shaft bore.

The cap outer diameter of the cap SW support 310 can be measured across the second end 315 of the cap SW support 310 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cap outer diameter can be between 0.10 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the cap outer diameter can be between 0.10 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, or between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the cap outer diameter of the is 0.18 inches. The cap outer diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the cap outer surface 316 and the shaft inner surface. More specifically, the cap outer diameter can be sized to ensure the cap can be inserted without excess force and still create a press fit/pinch fit between the cap and the shaft inner surface. The cap SW support 310 can apply an outward force against the shaft inner surface, thereby preventing the stick weight 330 from rattling.

The cap inner diameter can be measured across the cavity 317 can be measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cap inner diameter can be between 0.07 inches and 0.17 inches. In some embodiments, the cap inner diameter can be between 0.07 inches and 0.08 inches, between 0.08 inches and 0.09 inches, between 0.09 inches and 0.10 inches, between 0.10 inches and 0.11 inches, between 0.11 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.16 inches, or between 0.16 inches and 0.17 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the cap inner diameter of the cap is 0.12 inches. The cap inner diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the cap SW support 317 and the stick weight 330. The tension between the cap SW support 317 and the stick weight can further prevent the rattling of the stick weight within the shaft 20.

As stated above, and as shown in FIG. 3B-3C, the cap SW support 310 can comprise a first portion 311 and a second portion 312, wherein the first portion 311 comprises a dome and the second portion 312 comprises a cylinder The first portion 311 can comprise a first portion height that can be measured from the bottom of the dome structure upwards to the first end 314 of the cap SW support 310. The first portion height can be between 0.09 inches and 0.25 inches. In some embodiments, the first portion height can be between 0.09 inches and 0.11 inches, between 0.11 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.17 inches, between 0.17 inches and 0.19 inches, between 0.19 inches and 0.21 inches, between 0.21 inches and 0.23 inches, or between 0.23 inches and 0.25 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion height is 0.17 inches.

Further, the second portion 312 can comprise a second portion height that can be measured from the bottom of the dome downwards to the second end 315 of the cap SW support 310. The second portion height can be between 0.12 inches and 0.25 inches. In some embodiments, the second portion height can be between 0.12 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.17 inches, between 0.17 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.19 inches, between 0.19 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.21 inches, between 0.21 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.23 inches, between 0.23 inches and 0.24 inches, or between 0.24 inches and 0.25 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the second portion height is 0.19 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the second portion height is 0.18 inches.

In some embodiments, as seen in FIG. 3B, the second portion 312 can further comprise a plurality of ridges 313 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ridges”) projecting outwardly from the outer surface 316 of the cap SW support 310. The plurality of ridges 313 can be positioned proximate the second end 315. The plurality of ridges 313 can contact the shaft inner surface to more reliably support the stick weight 330. The plurality of ridges 313 can comprise between 2 ridges and 15 ridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 313 can be between 2 ridges and 6 ridges, between 6 ridges and 11 ridges, and between 11 ridges and 15 ridges.

The plurality of ridges 313 can comprise a ridge shape, wherein the ridge shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the plurality of ridges perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ridge shape can be selected from the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses. The ridge shape provides space for air to escape and reduces the force necessary to insert the stick weight assembly 300 into the shaft tip. The ridge shape further facilitates the compression of the ridges, if needed. Ridge compression can be desired to accommodate a variety of shaft internal diameters.

A ridge length can be measured from the second end 315 upwards to a ridge termination point, in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the cap SW support 310 can have ridges of varying length. In other embodiments, the cap SW support 310 can have ridges of a constant length. Regardless of whether the cap SW support 310 has ridges of varying or constant length, the ridge length can be between 0.10 inches to 0.20 inches. In some embodiments, the ridge length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.11 inches, between 0.11 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.17 inches, between 0.17 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.19 inches, or between 0.19 inches and 0.20 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the ridge length is 0.145 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the ridge length is 0.165 inches. In some embodiments, the ridges 313 can extend the total length of the second portion 312. In other embodiments, the ridges 313 can extend past the second portion 312 into the first portion 311. In other embodiments, the ridges 313 can extend a portion of the second portion 312. The ridge length can dictate the amount of force the stick weight assembly 300 places on the shaft internal diameter.

As discussed above the cap SW support 310 can be formed from a flexible TPE material. In one exemplary embodiment the flexible TPE material can comprise a hardness of 60 shore A hardness. The cap SW support material can have a much greater elastic limit than the stick weight material. As stated above, the shaft diameter can be smallest at the tip end and can slowly increase as you move towards the grip end. The cap SW support material can facilitate compression as the stick weight assembly 300 is inserted within the shaft tip end 10, and subsequently expand as the stick weight assembly 300 is pushed further into the shaft 20. The cap SW support material can further allow the ridges 313 to compress slightly when positioned within the shaft 20, as discussed above. The tight fit between the ridges 313 and the shaft 20 can provide support to the stick weight 330 and dampen the vibration produced at impact of the club head with a ball.

b) Fin Stick Weight Support

Described herein is a fin stick weight support configured to attach to the stick weight rod at certain points. The fin comprises an aperture that has geometry complementary to the rod outer diameter. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4A, the SW support 320 can comprise a fin-like geometry. The fin-like stick weight support 320 (hereafter alternatively referred to “the fin SW support”) can comprise a plurality of fins 321 or 322 or disk-like members (hereafter alternatively referred to “the fins”). Each fin can comprise a top surface, a bottom surface, an outer edge 323, and a central aperture 324. The fin SW support 320 can be injection molded onto the stick weight rod 303 or 403, such that the stick weight rod 303 or 403 can be positioned within the central aperture 324, wherein the central aperture 324 has a complimentary geometry to the rod cross-sectional geometry. The outer edge 323 of each fin can contact the shaft inner surface. The stick weight 330 and the plurality of fins 321 or 322, can fit snugly within the shaft 20 to prevent the stick weight 330 from rattling or moving within the shaft 20. More specifically the fins can be designed to be bendable such that the fins can compressed during insertion and then expand to create a press fit/pinch fit between the fins and the shaft inner surface. Each fin 321 or 322 can further define a fin inner diameter corresponding to the rod diameter, and a fin outer diameter, corresponding to the shaft internal diameter.

The fin outer diameter can be measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The fin outer diameter can be between 0.10 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the fin outer diameter can be between 0.10 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.30 inches, or between 0.30 inches and 0.40 inches. The fin outer diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the fin and the shaft inner surface. Each fin 321 or 322 can place an outward force against the internal surface, creating a press fit/pinch fit between the fins and the shaft inner surface and preventing the stick weight 330 from rattling.

The fin inner diameter of can be measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The fin inner diameter can be between 0.05 inches and 0.35 inches. In some embodiments, the fin inner diameter can be between 0.05 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.25 inches, or between 0.25 inches and 0.35 inches. The fin inner diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the fin 321 or 322 and the stick weight 330. Engagement between the fin 321 or 322 and the stick weight 330 can further prevent rattling of the stick weight 330 within the shaft 20.

Each fin 321 or 322 of the plurality of fins can define a fin thickness. The fin thickness can be measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the fin thickness can be variable. In some embodiments, the fin 321 or 322 can comprise one flat surface and one tapered surface, wherein the top surface is tapered, and the bottom surface is flat. In other embodiments, the fin 321 or 322 can comprise one flat surface and one tapered surface, wherein the top surface is flat, and the bottom surface is tapered. In other embodiments, the fin 321 or 322 can comprise two tapered surfaces. In other embodiments, the fin thickness can be constant. The fin thickness can be between 0.01 inches and 0.05 inches. In some embodiments, the fin thickness can be between 0.01 inches and 0.02 inches, between 0.02 inches and 0.03 inches, between 0.03 inches and 0.04 inches or between 0.04 inches and 0.05 inches.

In some embodiments, the fins 321 or 322 can comprise a penannular ring, wherein a slit is defined between two adjacent portions of the ring. In another embodiment, the fin 321 or 322 can comprise a continuous ring with a partial slit. The partial slit may extend from the outer diameter to the central aperture 324, terminating at a point between the inner and outer diameter. The slit may allow the stick weight assembly 300 to be more easily inserted into the shaft tip end 10 and allow the fins 321 or 322 to regain their initial geometry when positioned within the shaft 20.

The fins 321 or 322 can be positioned accordingly along the length of the stick weight 330. The plurality of fins can include a range of 1 to 5 fins. In one embodiment, as seen in FIG. 4A, a first fin 321 can be positioned near the top end of the rod 301 or 401, and a second fin 322 can be positioned near the bottom end of the rod 302 or 402. The fins 321 and 322 may be fixed to the stick weight 330 through a variety of means including injection molding or epoxy.

As discussed above the fins SW 321 or 322 can be formed from a flexible TPE material. In one exemplary embodiment the flexible TPE material can comprise a hardness of 60 shore A hardness. The fin material can have a greater elastic limit than the stick weight material. The fin material can allow the fins 321 or 322 to be compressed as the stick weight assembly 300 is inserted within the shaft tip end 10 and expand as the stick weight assembly 300 is pushed further into the shaft 20. The tight fit between the fins and the shaft 20 can provide support to the stick weight 330 and dampen the vibration produced at impact.

c) Sleeve Stick Weight Support

Described herein is a sleeve stick weight support that is configured to be positioned on the rod. The sleeve can comprise ridges to further center the stick weight within the shaft. Referring to FIGS. 5A-5D, in some embodiments, the SW support 410 can comprise a sleeve geometry. The sleeve SW support 410 can hereafter alternatively referred to as “the sleeve” or “the sleeve SW support”. In some embodiments, the sleeve SW support 410 can be over-molded onto the stick weight 430. In other embodiments, the sleeve SW support 410 can be molded separately and then positioned on the stick weight 430. The sleeve SW support can comprise a first portion 411, a second portion 412, a plurality of ridges 413, a plurality of holes 418, and a plurality of recesses 419. The sleeve SW support further can comprise a first end 414, a second end 415, and an outer surface 416. Further, the sleeve SW support can define a cavity 417, wherein the cavity 417 extends from the second end 415 of the sleeve SW support towards the first end 414 of the sleeve SW support. The cavity 417 can comprise a cavity depth that can be measured along the longitudinal axis. The cavity 417 can be configured to receive the top end of the rod 401. The cavity 417 can further comprise a cavity geometry compatible with the rod geometry.

The sleeve SW support 410 further can comprise a sleeve length, a sleeve outer diameter, a sleeve inner diameter, and a sleeve thickness. The sleeve outer and sleeve inner diameters can vary to accommodate a variety of shafts having different diameters. The sleeve outer and sleeve inner diameters can be selected to ensure the sleeve fits snugly over the stick weight 430 and within the shaft 20.

The sleeve length can be measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the sleeve length can be between 0.80 inches to 2.60 inches. In some embodiments, the sleeve length can be between 0.80 inches and 1.00 inches, between 1.00 inches and 1.20 inches, between 1.20 inches and 1.40 inches, between 1.40 inches and 1.60 inches, between 1.60 inches and 1.80 inches, between 1.80 inches and 2.00 inches, between 2.00 inches and 2.20 inches, between 2.20 inches and 2.40 inches, or between 2.40 inches and 2.60 inches. In some embodiments, the sleeve length can be below 2.60 inches, below 2.40 inches, below 2.20 inches, below 2.00, below 1.80 inches, below 1.60 inches, below 1.40 inches, below 1.20 inches, or below 1.00 inches. The sleeve length can directly impact the ability to dampen the vibrations created when the club head impacts the golf ball. In some embodiments, the sleeve length can be selected to correlate with the rod length, such that the rod length can be approximately 3% greater, approximately 5% greater, approximately 7% greater, approximately 9% greater, approximately 11% greater, approximately 13% greater, approximately 15% greater, or approximately 17% greater than the sleeve length.

The sleeve outer diameter can be measured across the second end 415 of the sleeve in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The sleeve outer diameter can be between 0.075 inches and 0.225 inches. In some embodiments, the sleeve outer diameter can be between 0.075 inches and 0.085 inches, between 0.085 inches and 0.105 inches, between 0.105 inches and 0.125 inches, between 0.125 inches and 0.145 inches, between 0.145 inches and 0.165 inches, between 0.165 inches and 0.185 inches, between 0.185 inches and 0.205 inches, or between 0.205 inches and 0.225 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the sleeve outer diameter is 0.160 inches. The sleeve outer diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the sleeve outer surface and the shaft inner surface. The sleeve exerts an outward force against the internal surface of the shaft 20, thereby preventing the stick weight 430 from rattling.

A sleeve inner diameter can be measured across the cavity in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The sleeve inner diameter can be between 0.07 inches and 0.08 inches, between 0.08 inches and 0.09 inches, between 0.09 inches and 0.10 inches, between 0.10 inches and 0.11 inches, between 0.11 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.16 inches, or between 0.16 inches and 0.17 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the sleeve inner diameter is 0.12 inches. The sleeve inner diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the sleeve and the stick weight 430. The tension between the sleeve and the stick weight 430 further can prevent the rattling of the stick weight 430 within the shaft 20.

As stated above and as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C, the sleeve SW support 410 can further comprise a plurality of ridges 413 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the plurality of ridges” or “the ridges”). The plurality of ridges 413 can be positioned on the sleeve outer surface 416 and extend outward. The plurality of ridges 413 can contact the shaft inner surface to provide further support to the stick weight assembly 400. In one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of ridges 413 can start at the sleeve second end 415 and extend a portion of the second portion 412. In another embodiment, the plurality of ridges 413 can start at the sleeve second end 415 and extend half of the second portion 411. In another embodiment, the plurality of ridges 413 can start at the sleeve second end 415 and extend a portion of the second portion 412, a distance less than half the sleeve height. In another embodiment, the plurality of ridges 413 can start at the sleeve second end 415 and extend into the first portion 411.

The plurality of ridges 413 can comprise a ridge length. The ridge length can be measured from a first ridge end to a second ridge end in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the ridge length can be variable. In other embodiments, the ridge length can be constant. The ridge length can be between 0.30 inches to 0.75 inches. In some embodiments, the ridge length can be between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches, between 0.40 inches and 0.45 inches, between 0.45 inches and 0.50 inches, between 0.50 inches and 0.55 inches, between 0.55 inches and 0.60 inches, between 0.60 inches and 0.65 inches, between 0.65 inches and 0.70 inches, or between 0.70 inches and 0.75 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the ridge length is 0.60 inches. The ridges length can directly impact the amount of support and friction between the sleeve and the shaft inner surface.

The plurality of ridges 413 can contact the shaft inner surface to provide further support to the stick weight 430. The plurality of ridges 413 can comprise between 2 ridges and 15 ridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 413 can range between 2 ridges and 6 ridges, between 6 ridges and 11 ridges, and between 11 ridges and 15 ridges.

The plurality of ridges 413 can comprise a ridge shape, wherein the ridge shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the plurality of ridges perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ridge shape can be selected from the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses. The ridge shape provides space for air to escape and reduces the force necessary to insert the stick weight assembly 400 into the shaft tip. The ridge shape further allows the ridges to easily compress if needed. The ability for the ridges to compress can be desired since the inner diameter of golf club shafts can vary. The compression of the ridges can allow for the application of the stick weight assembly 400 in a variety of shafts at different circumference than the stick weight 430.

As discussed above, the sleeve SW support 410 can further comprise a plurality of holes 418 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the plurality of holes” or “the holes”), wherein the plurality of holes 418 can be located at points along the sleeve length. The location of the holes 418 can allow the sleeve SW support 410 to be easily positioned on the stick weight 430. More specifically, the plurality of holes 418 can allow air to escape as the sleeve SW support 410 is inserted onto the stick weight 430, ensuring quick and easy installation. The plurality of holes 418 can comprise between 2 holes and 10 holes. In some embodiments, the plurality of holes 418 can range between 2 holes and 4 holes, between 4 holes and 6 holes, between 6 holes and 8 holes, and between 8 holes and 10 holes. As mentioned above, the plurality of holes, and the plurality of recesses, discussed below, allow the stick weight support 410 to easily be form and affixed to the stick weight 430. The plurality of holes and the plurality of recesses further allow for the stick weight assembly to be quickly and easily inserted into the shaft tip end, creating a simpler and faster manufacturing process.

Further, as discussed above, the sleeve SW support 410 can comprise a plurality of recesses 419, wherein the plurality of recesses 419 is located at points along the length of the sleeve SW support 410. The location of the recesses 419 can ensure the stick weight assembly 400 remains centered during the injection molding process. The plurality of recesses 419 can comprise between 2 recesses and 10 recesses. In some embodiments, the plurality of recesses 419 can range between 2 recesses and 4 recesses, between 4 recesses and 6 recesses, between 6 recesses and 8 recesses, and between 8 recesses and 10 recesses. Similar to the plurality of holes, the plurality of recesses help the pliability of the SW support. As discussed above the cap SW support 410 can be formed from a flexible TPE material. In one exemplary embodiment the flexible TPE material can comprise a hardness of 60 shore A hardness. The sleeve SW support material can have a greater elastic limit than the stick weight material. The sleeve SW support material can allow the sleeve SW support 410 to be compressed as the stick weight assembly 400 is inserted within the shaft tip end 10 and expand as the stick weight assembly 400 is pushed further into the shaft 20. The sleeve SW support material also allows the ridges 413 to compress slightly when positioned with the shaft 20. The tight fit between the ridges 413 and the shaft 20 can provide support to the stick weight 430 and dampen the vibration produced at impact.

II. Steel Stick Weight Assemblies

The golf club described herein can comprise a club head, a steel shaft, a steel stick weight assembly, and a grip. The club head can comprise a body having a strikeface, a toe, a heel opposite the toe, a sole, and a crown opposite the sole. The club head can further comprise a hosel. The hosel can be located near the heel of the club. The hosel can comprise a hosel bore. The hosel bore can comprise of a bore positioned at a top edge of the hosel and extending into the body of the club head. The shaft can comprise a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, a shaft tip end proximate the club head, and a grip end proximate the grip. The shaft tip end can be received within the hosel bore of the club head. The shaft can define a longitudinal axis that runs from a geometric center of the tip end to a geometric center of the grip end. The shaft can be a hollow cylindrical object and can define an opening near the tip end configured to receive the steel stick weight assembly. The steel stick weight assembly can comprise a stick weight and a stick weight support (hereafter alternatively known as “SW support”). In some embodiments, the stick weight and the SW support can be integral. In other embodiments, the stick weight and the SW support can be separate. The steel stick weight assembly can provide means for adding mass to the hosel portion of the golf club while, decreasing the amount of space the stick weight assembly occupies in the hosel, saving discretionary mass and allowing that saved discretionary mass to be redistributed throughout the club head.

1. Tiered Steel Stick Weight

Described herein is a stick weight assembly comprising a tiered rod to allow for a closer fit within the shaft bore. The top portion of the stick weight can have a smaller diameter than the bottom portion to allow for a support feature to be positioned upon it. In some embodiments, the bottom portion of the stick weight can be configured to touch the inner surface of the shaft creating a press fit/pinch fit between the stick weight assembly and shaft inner surface. Referring to FIG. 6A-6D, the stick weight 530 can comprise a cylindrical rod 503 (herein “the rod”) and a disk 504. The rod 503 can comprise a top end 501 and a bottom end 502. The bottom end 502 of the rod can be coupled to the disk 504, as illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B The stick weight 530 can be received within the shaft 20 near the shaft tip end 10 such that the second end 502 of the rod is positioned within the shaft 20, and the disk 504 abuts the shaft tip end 10. The rod 503 can be fully encapsulated within the shaft 20, and the disk 504 can protrude into the hosel 40 from the shaft tip end 10.

The rod 503 can define a rod length, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20 from the top end 501 to the bottom end 502. The rod length can be between 0.60 inches to 1.60 inches. In some embodiments, the rod length can be between 0.60 inches and 0.70 inches, between 0.70 inches and 0.80 inches, between 0.80 inches and 0.90 inches, between 0.90 inches and 1.00 inches, between 1.00 inches and 1.10 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.20 inches, between 1.20 inches and 1.30 inches, between 1.30 inches and 1.40 inches, between 1.40 inches and 1.50 inches, or between 1.50 inches and 1.60 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 0.97 inches. The rod length can affect both the weight of the stick weight 530 as well as the durability. As the rod length increases, as does the weight and the susceptibility to breaking. The increased rod length can increase the vibrational forces transferred from the shaft 20 to the stick weight 530 at impact. The elevated levels of vibrational forces can lead to failure of the stick weight 530. However, the SW support 510, as further discussed below, can absorb some if not all of the vibrations created at impact, thereby allowing the use of a longer and heavier stick weight 530, if desired.

The stick weight assembly 500 can comprise a weight. As discussed above, the rod length can be the key factor in the weight of the stick weight assembly 500. In some embodiments the weight can be between 1 gram to 20 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be 1 gram, 2 grams, 3 grams, 4 grams, 5 grams, 6 grams, 7 grams, 8 grams, 9 grams, 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, 17 grams, 18 grams, 19 15 grams or 20 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be less than 20 grams, less than grams, less than 10 grams, or less than 5 grams. While the size of the disk 504 can also impact the weight, it is less of a factor than the rod length.

In some embodiments, the rod 503 can comprise a top portion 505 and bottom portion 506, wherein the top portion 505 has a top portion diameter, and the bottom portion has a bottom portion diameter. In some embodiments, the top portion diameter is smaller than the bottom portion diameter. In these embodiments, the top portion 505 comprises the top end 501 and the bottom portion 506 comprises the bottom end 502. The top portion 505 can further comprise a top portion geometry that is compatible with a cavity geometry, as discussed below.

As seen in FIG. 6A, in some embodiments the rod 503 can comprise a top portion length measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft from the top end to the start of the bottom portion. The top portion length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments the top portion length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.32 inches, between 0.32 inches and 0.34 inches, between 0.34 inches and 0.36 inches, between 0.36 inches and 0.38 inches, or between 0.38 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the top portion length is 0.25 inches.

In some embodiments, the rod 503 can comprise a bottom portion length measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft from the bottom end 502 to the start of the top portion 505. The bottom portion length can be between 0.50 inches and 0.90 inches. In some embodiments, the top portion length can be between 0.50 inches and 0.55 inches, between 0.55 inches and 0.60 inches, between 0.60 inches and 0.75 inches, between 0.75 inches and 0.80 inches, between 0.80 inches and 0.85 inches, or between 0.85 inches and 0.90 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the top portion length is 0.72 inches.

In some embodiments, the top portion 505 can define a top portion diameter measured across a top portion cross section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The top portion diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the top portion diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, or between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the top portion diameter is 0.22 inches.

In some embodiments, the bottom portion 506 can define a bottom portion diameter measured across a bottom portion cross section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The bottom portion diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.32 inches, between 0.32 inches and 0.34 inches, between 0.34 inches and 0.36 inches, between 0.36 inches and 0.38 inches, or between 0.38 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the bottom portion diameter is 0.288 inches. In other embodiments, the bottom portion diameter is 0.282 inches. In further embodiments, the bottom portion diameter can be constant. In yet other embodiments, the bottom portion diameter can be variable. The bottom portion 506 and top portion 505 can be sized for insertion into the shaft tip.

As discussed above, the disk 504 can be coupled to the bottom end 502 and sized to abut the shaft tip end 10. The disk 504 can define a disk diameter, measured across a surface of the disk 504 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, or between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.35 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.32 inches.

The disk 504 further can define a disk thickness, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, the disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.050 inches, between 0.050 inches and 0.075 inches, and between 0.075 inches and 0.100 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness 0.040 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness is 0.070 inches. The disk 504 can be sized to prevent full insertion of the stick weight assembly 500 into the shaft bore. This will provide ease of manufacturing and ensure the stick weight assembly 500 can be quickly and consistently positioned within the shaft bore.

In some embodiments, the disk 504 can further comprise a plurality of ribs 508 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ribs”). The plurality of ribs 508 can be positioned around the exterior of the disk 504, extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20. The plurality of ribs 508 can act as an additional support means to hold the stick weight 530 in the desired position. The plurality of ribs 508 can comprise between 2 ridges and 10 ridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 508 can range between 2 ridges and 4 ridges, between 4 ridges and 6 ridges, between 6 ridges and 8 ridges, and between 8 ridges and 10 ridges.

The plurality of ribs 508 can comprise a thickness, wherein the thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, the thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.015 inches, between 0.015 inches and 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 inches and 0.025 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the thickness can be 0.008 inches.

In some embodiments, the plurality of ribs 508 can extend solely along the thickness of the disk 504. In other embodiments, the plurality of ribs 508 can extend the thickness of the disk 504 and further into the bottom portion 502. The plurality of ribs 508 can define a length wherein the length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.050 inches. In some embodiments, the rib length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.035 inches, between 0.035 inches and 0.040 inches, between 0.040 inches and 0.045 inches, or between 0.045 inches and 0.050 inches.

a) Cap Stick Weight Support

Described herein is a cap stick weight support comprising a cavity that has geometry complementary to the tiered stick weight rod. Further, the cap can comprise ridges to help position the stick weight within the shaft. As discussed above the steel stick weight assembly 500 can comprise a stick weight support. In some embodiments, the SW support 510 can comprise a cap-like geometry. The cap-like SW support 510 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the cap” or “the cap SW support”) ensures the stick weight 530 is fully secured within the shaft bore, as illustrated in FIG. 6B. The cap SW support 510 can comprise a first end 514, a second end 515, and an outer surface 516. The cap SW support 510 further defines a cavity 517 extending from the second end 515 toward the first end 514. The cavity 517 comprises a depth that can be measured along the longitudinal axis. The cavity 517 can be configured to receive the second end of the stick weight 515. The cavity 517 can define a cavity geometry complementary to a rod top portion geometry.

The cap SW support 510 further can comprise a cap outer diameter, a cap inner diameter, a first portion 511, a second portion 512, a recess 518 and a thickness. The first portion 511 can comprise a dome. The dome can guide the insertion of the cap SW support 510 into the shaft 20. The second portion 512 can comprise a cylindrical body ensuring an even distribution of forces against the inside of the shaft 20. The cap outer diameter and cap inner diameters can vary to accommodate a variety of shafts internal diameters. The cap outer diameter and cap inner diameters further can be selected to ensure the cap SW support 510 fits snugly over the stick weight top portion and within the shaft bore.

The cap outer diameter can be measured across the second end 515 of the cap SW support 510 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cap outer diameter can be between 0.15 inches and 0.45 inches. In some embodiments, the cap outer diameter can be between 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches, or between 0.40 inches and 0.45 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap outer diameter of the cap SW support 510 is 0.28 inches. The cap outer diameter of the cap SW support 510 can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the cap SW support 510 and the shaft 20. The cap SW support 510 can apply an outward force against the shaft inner surface, thereby preventing the stick weight 530 from rattling.

The cap inner diameter can be measured across the cavity in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cap inner diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the cap inner diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, or 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the cap inner diameter is 0.208 inches. The cap inner diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the cap SW support 510 and the stick weight 530. The tension between the cap SW support 510 and the stick weight 530 can further prevent the rattling of the stick weight 530 within the shaft 20.

As stated above, and shown in FIG. 6D, the cap SW support 510 can comprise a first portion 511 and a second portion 512, wherein the first portion 511 comprises a dome and a recess 518 and the second portion 512 comprises a cylindrical body. The first portion 511 can comprise a first portion height that can be measured from the bottom of the dome upwards to the first end 514 of the cap SW support 510. The first portion height can be between 0.05 inches and 0.35 inches. In some embodiments, the first portion height can be between 0.05 inches and 0.10 inches, between 0.10 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, or between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the first portion height is 0.155 inches.

Further, the second portion 512 can comprise a second portion height that can be measured from the bottom of the dome downwards to the second end 515 of the cap SW support 410. The second portion height can be between 0.10 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the second portion height can be between 0.10 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, or between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the second portion height is 0.145 inches.

In some embodiments, as seen in FIG. 6C, the second portion 512 can further comprise a plurality of ridges 513 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ridges”) projecting outwardly from the outer surface 516 of the cap SW support 510. The plurality of ridges 513 can be positioned proximate the second end 515 of the cap SW support 510 within the second portion 512. The plurality ridges 513 can contact the inner surface of the shaft 20 to more reliably support the stick weight 530. The plurality of ridges 513 can comprise between 2 ridges and 15 ridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 513 can range between 2 ridges and 6 ridges, between 6 ridges and 11 ridges, and between 11 ridges and 15 ridges. In one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of ridges 513 comprises 6 ridges.

The plurality of ridges 513 can comprise a ridge shape, wherein the ridge shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the plurality ridges perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ridge shape can be selected from the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses. The ridge shape of the plurality of ridges 513 provides space for air to escape and reduces the force necessary to insert the stick weight assembly 500 into the shaft tip end 10. The ridge shape further facilitates compression of the plurality of ridges 513, if needed. Ridge compressions can be desired to accommodate a variety of shaft internal diameters.

A ridge length can be measured from the second end 515 upwards to a ridge termination point, in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the cap SW support 510 can have ridges 513 of varying length. In other embodiments, the cap SW support 510 can have ridges 513 of a constant length. Regardless of whether the cap SW support 510 has ridges 513 of varying or constant length, the ridge length can be between 0.10 inches to 0.20 inches. In some embodiments, the length of the ridge can be between 0.10 inches and 0.11 inches, between 0.11 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.17 inches, between 0.17 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.19 inches, or between 0.19 inches and 0.20 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the length of the ridges is 0.145 inches. In some embodiments, the ridges 513 can extend the total length of the second portion 512. In other embodiments, the ridges 513 can extend past the second portion 512 into the first portion 511. In other embodiments, the ridges 513 can extend into the second portion 512. The ridge length can dictate the amount of force the stick weight assembly 500 places on the shaft internal diameter.

As discussed above the cap SW support 510 can be formed from a flexible TPE material. In one exemplary embodiment the flexible TPE material can comprise a hardness of 60 shore A hardness. The cap SW support material can have a greater elastic limit than the stick weight material. The cap SW support material can facilitate compression as the stick weight assembly 500 is inserted within the shaft tip end 10, and substantially expands as the stick weight assembly 500 is pushed further into the shaft 20. The cap SW support material also allows the ridges 513 to compress slightly when positioned with the shaft 20. The tight fit between the ridges 513 and the shaft 20 can provide support to the stick weight 530 and dampen the vibration produced at impact.

2. Tiered Steel Stick Weight with Top Portion Aperture

Described herein is a stick weight assembly comprising a tiered rod with an aperture to allow for a closer, more secure fit within the shaft bore. The top portion of the stick weight can have a smaller diameter than the bottom portion to allow for a support feature to be positioned upon it. The bottom portion of the stick weight can be configured to touch the inner surface of the shaft creating a press fit/pinch fit between the cap and the shaft inner surface. Further, there is an aperture in the top portion which can provide more surface area for the support member to attach on to, leading to a more secure fit within the shaft. Referring to FIGS. 7A-7D and FIGS. 8A-8D, the stick weight 630 can comprise a cylindrical rod 603 herein “the rod” and a disk 604. The rod 603 can comprise a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end of the rod 603 can be coupled to the disk 604, as illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 8A The stick weight 630 can be received within the shaft 20 near the shaft tip end 10 such that the second end of the rod 603 is positioned within the shaft 20, and the disk 604 abuts the shaft tip end 10. The rod 603 can be fully encapsulated within the shaft 20, and the disk 604 can protrude into the hosel 40 from the shaft tip end 10.

The rod 603 can define a length, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft from the top end to the bottom end. The length can be between 0.60 inches to 1.60 inches. In some embodiments, the length can be between 0.60 inches and 0.70 inches, between 0.70 inches and 0.80 inches, between 0.80 inches and 0.90 inches, between 0.90 inches and 1.00 inches, between 1.00 inches and 1.10 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.20 inches, between 1.20 inches and 1.30 inches, between 1.30 inches and 1.40 inches, between 1.40 inches and 1.50 inches, or between 1.50 inches and 1.60 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 0.97 inches.

The rod length can affect both the weight of the stick weight 630 as well as the durability. As the rod length increases, as does the weight and the susceptibility to breaking. The increased rod length can increase the vibrational forces transferred from the shaft 20 to the stick weight 630 at impact. The elevated levels of vibrational forces can lead to failure of the stick weight 630. However, the SW support 610, as further discussed below, can absorb some if not all of the vibrations created at impact, thereby allowing the use of a longer and heavier stick weight 630, if desired.

The stick weight assembly 600 can comprise a weight. As discussed above, the rod length can be the key factor in the weight of the stick weight assembly 600. In some embodiments, the weight can be between 1 gram to 20 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be 1 gram, 2 grams, 3 grams, 4 grams, 5 grams, 6 grams, 7 grams, 8 grams, 9 grams, 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, 17 grams, 18 grams, 19 grams or 20 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be less than 20 grams, less than 15 grams, less than 10 grams, or less than 5 grams. While the size of the disk 604 can also impact the weight, it is less of a factor than the rod length.

In some embodiments, the rod 603 can comprise a top portion 610 and bottom portion 606, wherein the top portion 605 has a top portion diameter, and the bottom portion 606 has a bottom portion diameter. In some embodiments, the top portion diameter is smaller than the bottom portion diameter. In these embodiments, the top portion 605 can comprise the top end and the bottom portion 606 can comprise the bottom end. The top portion 605 can further comprise a top portion geometry that is compatible with a cavity geometry, as discussed below.

In some embodiments, the rod 603 can comprise a top portion length measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft from the top end to the start of the bottom portion. The top portion length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the top portion length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.32 inches, between 0.32 inches and 0.34 inches, between 0.34 inches and 0.36 inches, between 0.36 inches and 0.38 inches, or between 0.38 inches and inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the top portion length is 0.25 inches.

In some embodiments, the top portion can define a top portion diameter measured across a top portion cross section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The top portion diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, or between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the top portion diameter is 0.22 inches.

The top portion 605 can further define a hole 609. The hole 609 can be recessed into the top portion 605 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the hole 609 can extend through the entirety of the top portion 605. As discussed in depth below, the SW support 610 can be cast or molded onto the top portion 605. The hole 609 allows the cap SW support material to flow into the hole 609, forming the retainer 618 and ensuring the cap SW support 610 is affixed the top portion 609. The hole 609 can allow for the cap SW support 610, to be molded onto the top portion 605. This will ensure the cap SW support 610 is permanently secure to the stick weight 630. Further, this will allow for the ability to easily insert the stick weight assembly 600, and if necessary, for the ability to easily remove the stick weight assembly 600 from the shaft tip end 10.

The hole 609 can comprise a hole diameter measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The hole diameter can be between 0.05 inches and 0.10 inches. In some embodiments, the hole diameter can be between 0.05 inches and 0.06 inches, between 0.06 inches and 0.07 inches, between 0.07 inches and 0.08 inches, between 0.08 inches and 0.09 inches, or between 0.09 inches and 0.10 inches. The hole diameter can be large enough to allow a cap SW support 610 material to fill the entirety of the hole 609 when the cap SW support 610 is cast to the top portion 605, to form a retainer 618, as discussed below.

As discussed above, the rod 603 can comprise a bottom portion length measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft from the bottom end to the start of the top portion. The bottom portion length can be between 0.50 inches and 0.90 inches. In some embodiments, the bottom portion length can be between 0.50 inches and 0.55 inches, between 0.55 inches and 0.60 inches, between 0.60 inches and 0.65 inches, between 0.65 inches and 0.70 inches, between 0.70 inches and 0.75 inches, between 0.75 inches and 0.80 inches, between 0.80 inches and 0.85 inches, or between 0.85 inches and 0.90 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the bottom portion length is 0.72 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the bottom portion length is 1.39 inches.

In some embodiments, the bottom portion 606 can define a bottom portion diameter measured across a bottom portion cross section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The bottom portion diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.32 inches, between 0.32 inches and 0.34 inches, between 0.34 inches and 0.36 inches, between 0.36 inches and 0.38 inches, or between 0.38 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the bottom portion diameter is 0.28 inches. In some embodiments, the bottom portion diameter can be constant. In other embodiments, the bottom portion diameter can be variable. As stated above, the bottom end of the bottom portion 606 can be coupled to the disk 604.

As discussed above, the disk 604 can be coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut the shaft tip end 10. The disk 604 can define a disk diameter, measured across a surface of the disk 604 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, or between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.35 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.32 inches. The disk diameter can be large enough to ensure the stick weight 630 is positioned at the correct insertion depth within the shaft tip end 10. More specifically, the disk diameter can be large enough to ensure the entirety of the stick weight assembly 600 cannot be positioned within the shaft tip end 10. The disk diameter can be small enough as to not interfere with the hosel bore internal surface when the shaft 20 is inserted into the hosel 40.

The disk 604 can further define a disk thickness, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, the disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.050 inches, between 0.050 inches and 0.075 inches, and between 0.075 inches and 0.100 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness is 0.040 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness is 0.070 inches. As stated above, the disk 604 can be positioned outside the shaft 20 while the rod 603 and cap SW support 610 are positioned within the shaft 20. The disk 604 can be sized to prevent full insertion of the stick weight assembly 600 into the shaft bore. This will provide ease of manufacturing and ensure the stick weight assembly 600 can be quickly and consistently positioned within the shaft bore.

In some embodiments, the disk 604 can further comprise a plurality of ribs 608 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ribs”). The plurality of ribs 608 can be positioned around the exterior of the disk 604, extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20. The plurality of ribs 608 can act as an additional support means to hold the stick weight 630 in the desired position. The plurality of ribs 608 can comprise between 2 ribs and 10 ribs. In some embodiments, the plurality of ribs 608 can range between 2 ribs and 4 ribs, between 4 ribs and 6 ribs, between 6 ribs and 8 ribs, and between 8 ribs and 10 ribs.

The plurality of ribs 608 can comprise a thickness, wherein the thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, the thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.015 inches, between 0.015 inches and 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 inches and 0.025 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the thickness can be 0.008 inches. The thickness can be sufficiently small to not interfere with the hosel bore internal surface when the shaft 20 is inserted into the hosel 40.

In some embodiments, the plurality of ribs 608 can extend solely along the thickness of the disk 604. In other embodiments, the plurality of ribs 608 can extend the thickness of the disk 604 and further into the bottom portion 606. The plurality of ribs 608 can define a length wherein the length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.050 inches. In some embodiments, the rib length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.035 inches, between 0.035 inches and 0.040 inches, between 0.040 inches and 0.045 inches, or between 0.045 inches and 0.050 inches.

a) Cap Stick Weight Support with Retainer

Described herein is a cap stick weight support comprising geometry that is complementary to the stick weight rod. Further, the cap comprises a retainer configured to be positioned within the aperture of the stick weight rod. The retainer adds more surface area to the cap and rod connection, resulting in a more secure connection. Additionally, the cap can comprise ridges on the outer surface to help position the stick weight within the shaft. The steel stick weight assembly 600, as described herein, can comprise an alternative cap stick weight support 610 (hereafter alternately referred to as “the cap” or “cap SW support”). In some embodiments, the cap SW support 610 can be positioned on the second end of the stick weight, wherein the stick weight 630 as well as the cap SW support 610 are positioned within the shaft 20, as illustrated in FIGS. 7B and 8B. The cap SW support 610 can comprise a first end 614, a second end 615, and an outer surface 616. The cap SW support 610 can define a cavity 617 extending into the cap SW support 610 from the second end 615 toward the first end 614. The cavity 617 comprises a depth that can be measured along the longitudinal axis. The cavity 617 can define a cavity geometry complementary to a top portion geometry.

In some embodiments, the cap SW support 610 can be cast onto the stick weight top portion. In such embodiments, a mold is positioned on the top portion 611. The mold can allow the cap SW support material to flow into the hole, forming a retainer 618. As discussed above, the cap SW support material can flow through the hole 609, thereby providing a retainer 618 for securing the cap SW support 610 to the stick weight 630. This can form a retainer. The retainer 618 can comprise a geometry compatible with the geometry of the hole 609. The retainer 618 can run from one side of the cavity 617 to the other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

The retainer 618 can comprise a retainer diameter. The retainer diameter can be between 0.05 inches and 0.10 inches. In some embodiments, the retainer diameter can be between 0.05 inches and 0.06 inches, between 0.06 inches and 0.07 inches, between 0.07 inches and 0.08 inches, between 0.08 inches and 0.09 inches, or between 0.09 inches and 0.10 inches. The retainer diameter can be equal to the diameter of the hole 609, as discussed above. The retainer diameter can be sufficiently large to ensure the retainer 618 is strong enough to withstand the forces applied to the cap SW support 610 as the stick weight assembly 600 is inserted and removed from the shaft tip end 10. The retainer diameter further can be sufficiently large to ensure the retainer 618 is strong enough to allow the stick weight assembly 600 to be inserted into and removed from the shaft tip end 10 without dislodging the cap SW support 610 from the stick weight 630.

The cap SW support 610 can further comprise a geometry that can allow the stick weight assembly 600 to be easily inserted into the shaft tip end 10 while still creating a tight fit between the stick weight assembly 600 and the internal surface of the shaft. The cap SW support 610 can comprise a cap outer diameter, a cap inner diameter, a first portion 611, a second portion 612, and a thickness. The first portion 611 can comprise a dome ensuring easy insertion into the shaft 20. The second portion 612 can comprise a cylindrical body ensuring an even distribution of forces against the inside of the shaft 20. The cap outer diameter and cap inner diameters can vary to accommodate a variety of shaft internal diameters. The cap outer diameter and cap inner diameters further can be selected to ensure the cap SW support 610 fits securely over the top portion and within the shaft bore. More specifically, the cap outer diameter can be sized to ensure the cap can be inserted without excess force and still create a press fit/pinch fit between the cap and the shaft inner surface.

The cap outer diameter of the cap SW support 610 can be measured across the second end 615 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cap outer diameter can be between 0.15 inches and 0.45 inches. In some embodiments, the cap outer diameter can be between 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches, or between 0.40 inches and 0.45 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap outer diameter is 0.28 inches. The cap outer diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the outer surface and the shaft internal surface. The cap SW support 610 applies a force upon the shaft internal surface to prevent the stick weight 630 from rattling and can remove the need for epoxy during the manufacturing process.

The cap inner diameter can be measured across the cavity 617 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cap inner diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the cap inner diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, or between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the cap inner diameter is 0.208 inches. The cap inner diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the cap SW support 610 and the stick weight 630. The tension between the cap SW support 610 and the stick weight 630 further can prevent the rattling of the stick weight 630 within the shaft 20.

As stated above, the cap SW support 610 can comprise a first portion 611 and a second portion 612, wherein the first portion 611 comprises a dome and the second portion 612 comprises a cylindrical body. The first portion 611 can comprise a first portion height that can be measured from the bottom of the dome upwards to the first end 614 of the cap SW support 610. The first portion height can be between 0.05 inches and 0.35 inches. In some embodiments, the first portion height can be between 0.05 inches and 0.10 inches, between 0.10 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, or between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the first portion height is 0.155 inches.

Further, the second portion 612 can comprise a second portion height that can be measured from the bottom of the dome downwards to the second end 615 of the cap SW support 610. The second portion height can be between 0.10 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the second portion height can be between 0.10 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, or between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the second portion height is 0.145 inches.

In some embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 7C and 8C, the second portion 612 can further comprise a plurality of ridges 613 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ridges”) projecting outwardly from the outer surface of the cap SW support 610. The plurality of ridges 613 can be positioned proximate the second end 615. The plurality of ridges 613 can contact the inner surface of the shaft 20 to more reliably support the stick weight 630. The plurality of ridges 613 can comprise between 2 ridges and 15 ridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 613 can range between 2 ridges and 6 ridges, between 6 ridges and 11 ridges, and between 11 ridges and 15 ridges. In one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of ridges 613 comprises 6 ridges.

The plurality of ridges 613 can comprise a ridge shape, wherein the ridge shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the plurality ridges perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ridge shape can be selected from the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses. The shape of the plurality of ridges 613 provides space for air to escape and reduces the force necessary to insert the stick weight assembly 600 into the shaft tip end 10. The shape further facilitates compression of the ridges 613, if needed. Ridge compression can be desired to accommodate a variety of shaft inner diameters. The compression of the ridges 613 also can allow the stick weight assembly 600 to be used with a variety of shafts.

A ridge length can be measured from the second end 615 upwards to a ridge termination point, in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the cap SW support 610 can have ridges of varying length. In other embodiments, the cap SW support 610 can have ridges of a constant length. Regardless of whether the cap SW support 610 has ridges of varying or constant length, the ridge length can be between 0.10 inches to 0.20 inches. In some embodiments, the ridge length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.11 inches, between 0.11 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.17 inches, between 0.17 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.19 inches, or between 0.19 inches and 0.20 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the ridge length is 0.145 inches. In some embodiments, the ridges 613 can extend the total length of the second portion 612. In other embodiments, the ridges 613 can extend past the second portion 612 into the first portion 611. In other embodiments, the ridges 613 can extend into the second portion 612. The ridge length can dictate the amount of force the stick weight assembly 600 places on the shaft inner diameter.

As discussed above the cap SW support 610 can be formed from a flexible TPE material. In one exemplary embodiment the flexible TPE material can comprise a hardness of 60 shore A hardness. The cap SW support material can have a much greater elastic limit than the stick weight material. The cap SW support material can facilitate compression as the stick weight assembly 600 is inserted within the shaft tip end 10, and subsequently expands as the stick weight assembly 600 is pushed further into the shaft 20. The cap SW support material also allows the ridges 613 to compress slightly when positioned within the shaft 20. The tight fit between the ridges 613 and the shaft 20 can provide support to the stick weight 630 and dampen the vibration produced at impact.

3. Tiered Stick Weight with Channel

Described herein is a stick weight assembly comprising a tiered stick weight with a channel to provide more surface, resulting in a more secure fit between the support feature and the stick weight. The top portion of the stick weight can have a smaller diameter than the bottom portion to allow for a support feature to be positioned upon it. The bottom portion of the stick weight can be configured to touch the inner surface of the shaft creating a press fit/pinch fit between the cap and the shaft inner surface. Further, there is a channel in the top portion which can provide more surface area for the support feature to attach on to, leading to a more secure fit within the shaft. Referring to FIGS. 9A-9D, the steel stick weight assembly 700 can comprise a stick weight 730 and a cap stick weight support 710 (hereafter “cap SW support) according to a fourth embodiment. The stick weight 730 can comprise a cylindrical rod 703 (herein “the rod”) and a disk 704. The rod 703 can comprise a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end of the rod 703 can be coupled to the disk 704. The stick weight 730 can be received within the shaft 20 near the shaft tip end 10 such that the second end of the rod 703 is positioned within the shaft 20, and the disk 704 abuts the shaft tip end 10. The rod 703 can be fully encapsulated within the shaft 20, and the disk 704 can protrude from the shaft tip end 10.

The rod 703 can define a rod length, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20 from the top end to the bottom end. The rod length can be between 0.60 inches to 1.60 inches. In some embodiments, the rod length can be between 0.60 inches and 0.70 inches, between 0.70 inches and 0.80 inches, between 0.80 inches and 0.90 inches, between 0.90 inches and 1.00 inches, between 1.00 inches and 1.10 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.20 inches, between 1.20 inches and 1.30 inches, between 1.30 inches and 1.40 inches, between 1.40 inches and 1.50 inches, or between 1.50 inches and 1.60 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 0.93 inches.

The rod length can affect both the weight of the stick weight 730 as well as the durability. As the rod length increases, as does the weight and the susceptibility to breaking. The increased rod length can increase the vibrational forces transferred from the shaft to the stick weight 730 at impact. The elevated levels of vibrational forces can lead to failure of the stick weight 730. However, the SW support 710, as further discussed below, can absorb some if not all of the vibrations created at impact, thereby allowing the use of a longer and heavier stick weight 730, if desired.

The stick weight assembly 700 can comprise a weight. As discussed above, the rod length can be the key factor in the weight of the stick weight assembly 700. In some embodiments the weight can be between 1 gram to 22 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be between 1 gram and 4 grams, 4 grams and 7 grams, 7 grams and 10 grams, 10 grams and 13 grams, 13 grams and 16 grams, 16 grams and 19 grams, or 19 grams and 22 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be less than 20 grams, less than 15 grams, less than 10 grams, or less than 5 grams. While the size of the disk 704 can also impact the weight, it is less of a factor than the rod length.

The rod 703 can comprise a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end of the rod 703 can abut the disk 704. The stick weight 730 can be received within the shaft 20 near the tip end such that the second end of the rod 703 is positioned within the shaft 20, and the disk 704 abuts the shaft tip end 10. The rod 703 can be fully encapsulated within the shaft 20, and the disk 704 can protrude from the shaft tip end 10. The top portion 705 can further comprise a top portion geometry that is compatible with a cavity geometry, as discussed below.

In some embodiments, the rod 703 can comprise a top portion length measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft from the top end to the start of the bottom portion. The top portion length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the top portion length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.32 inches, between 0.32 inches and 0.34 inches, between 0.34 inches and 0.36 inches, between 0.36 inches and 0.38 inches, or between 0.38 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the top portion length is 0.25 inches.

In some embodiments, the top portion can define a top portion diameter measured across a top portion cross-section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The top portion diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, or between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the top portion diameter is 0.22 inches.

The top portion 705 can further define a channel 709. The channel 709 can be recessed into the top portion 705 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The channel 709 can be configured to receive a portion of the cap SW support 710, to provide additional support and ensure the support feature remains in position during assembly. The channel 709 can be defined by a bottom surface, a first wall and a second wall. The first wall and second wall can each comprise a wall height. In one exemplary embodiment, the first wall height and second wall height can be equal. In another embodiment, the first wall height can be greater than the second wall height. In another embodiment, the second wall height can be greater than the first wall height. The first and second wall height, along with the bottom surface can determine the geometry of the cap cavity 717, as described below.

In other embodiments (not shown), the channel can comprise an interlock that cooperates with the cavity of the cap SW support. The channel interlock can provide torsional resistance to the stick weight assembly. The channel interlock can further ensure the cap SW support remains in place during installation within the shaft tip end and ensure the cap SW support remains in place when removed from the shaft tip end. The channel and cavity interlock can be one or more projections, teeth, recesses, threads, or any other interlock.

In some embodiments, the channel interlock can protrude from the channel first wall and the channel second wall. In some embodiments, the channel interlock can protrude from the channel bottom surface. In other embodiments, the channel interlock can protrude solely from the channel first wall or solely from the channel second wall. Various embodiments of the stick weight system (i.e. stick weight assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 800, 900 and 1000) described herein can be associated with interlocks, are not limited to the positioning of the interlocks within a channel, and can be applied to various features within the aforementioned stick weight assemblies.

The channel 709 further can comprise a channel depth. The channel depth can be large enough to ensure the cap SW support 710 will remain securely attached to the stick weight 730 during and after an over-molding process. The channel depth can be sufficiently small to maintain the durability of the cap SW support 710. The channel depth can be between 0.05 inches and 0.10 inches. In some embodiments, the depth can be between 0.05 inches and 0.06 inches, between 0.06 inches and 0.07 inches, between 0.07 inches and 0.08 inches, between 0.08 inches and 0.09 inches, or between 0.09 inches and 0.10 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the channel depth is 0.06 inches.

As discussed above, the rod 703 can comprise a bottom portion length. The bottom portion length can be measured along the longitudinal axis from the bottom end to the start of the top portion. The bottom portion length can be between 0.50 inches and 1.50 inches. In some embodiments, the bottom portion length can be between 0.50 inches and 0.55 inches, between 0.55 inches and 0.60 inches, between 0.60 inches and 0.65 inches, between 0.65 inches and 0.70 inches, between 0.70 inches and 0.75 inches, between 0.75 inches and 0.80 inches, between 0.80 inches and 0.85 inches, between 0.85 inches and 0.90 inches, between 0.90 inches and 1.00 inch, between 1.05 inches and 1.10 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.15 inches, between 1.15 inches and 1.20 inches, between 1.20 inches, between 1.25 inches, between 1.25 inches and 1.30 inches, between 1.30 inches and 1.35 inches, between 1.35 inches and 1.40 inches, between 1.40 inches and 1.45 inches, or between 1.45 inches and 1.50 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the bottom portion length is 0.68 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the bottom portion length is 1.40 inches. As discussed above, the weight of stick weight assembly 700 can depend on the rod length. The rod length and further the weight can also be influenced by the bottom portion length

In some embodiments, the bottom portion can define a bottom portion diameter measured across a bottom portion cross section in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The bottom portion diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.32 inches, between 0.32 inches and 0.34 inches, between 0.34 inches and 0.36 inches, between 0.36 inches and 0.38 inches, or between 0.38 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the bottom portion diameter is 0.28 inches. In some embodiments, the bottom portion diameter can be constant. In other embodiments, the bottom portion diameter can be variable. As stated above, the bottom end of the bottom portion 706 can be coupled to the disk 704.

As discussed above, the disk 704 can be coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut the shaft tip end 10. The disk 704 can define a disk diameter, measured across a surface of the disk in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, or between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.35 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.32 inches. The disk diameter can be sufficiently large to ensure the stick weight 730 is positioned at the correct insertion depth within the shaft tip end 10. More specifically, the disk diameter can be sufficiently large to prevent an entirety of the stick weight assembly 700 from being inserted into the shaft tip end 10. The disk diameter can be sufficiently small to avoid interfering with the hosel bore internal surface when the shaft 20 is inserted into the hosel 40.

The disk 704 can further define a disk thickness, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, the disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.050 inches, between inches and 0.075 inches, or between 0.075 inches and 0.100 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness is 0.040 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness is 0.070 inches. As stated above, the disk 704 can be positioned outside the shaft 20, within the hosel bore, while the rod 703 and cap SW support 710 are positioned within the shaft 20. The disk thickness can be sufficiently large to prevent the stick weight assembly 700 from being forced into the shaft 20 by a distance greater than desired.

In some embodiments, the disk 704 can further comprise a plurality of ribs 708 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ribs”). The plurality of ribs 708 can be positioned around the exterior of the disk 704, extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20. The plurality of ribs 708 can hold the stick weight 730 in the desired position. The plurality of ribs 708 can comprise between 2 ribs and 10 ribs. In some embodiments, the plurality of ribs 708 can range between 2 ribs and 4 ribs, between 4 ribs and 6 ribs, between 6 ribs and 8 ribs, and between 8 ribs and 10 ribs. The plurality of ribs 708 can create a pinch fit with the hosel bore 41, providing further support to the stick weight assembly 700.

The plurality of ribs 708 can comprise a rib thickness, wherein the rib thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, the rib thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.015 inches, between 0.015 inches and 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 inches and 0.025 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rib thickness can be 0.008 inches.

In some embodiments, the plurality of ribs 708 can extend solely along the thickness of the disk 704. In other embodiments, the ribs 708 can extend the thickness of the disk 704 and further into the bottom portion 706 of the rod. The plurality of ribs 708 can define a length wherein the length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.050 inches. In some embodiments, the rib length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.035 inches, between 0.035 inches and 0.040 inches, between 0.040 inches and 0.045 inches, or between 0.045 inches and 0.050 inches.

a) Cap Stick Weight Support with Compatible Geometry

Described herein is a cap stick weight comprising a cavity with geometry that follows the channel of the stick weight rod. The channel provides more surface area for the cap to grip on to, resulting in a more secure fit. As shown in FIG. 9B, the steel stick weight assembly 700 can comprise a cap stick weight support 710. In some embodiments, the cap stick weight support 710 can be positioned on the top portion of the rod, wherein the stick weight 730 as well as the cap stick weight support 710 are positioned within the shaft 20, as illustrated in FIG. 9B. The cap stick weight support 710 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the cap SW support” or “the cap”) can comprise a first end, a second end, and an outer surface. Referring to FIGS. 9C and 9D, the cap SW support 710 further can define a cavity 717 extending from the second end 715 toward the first end 714. The cavity 717 can comprise a depth that can be measured along the longitudinal axis. The cavity 717 can comprise a compatible geometry with the geometry of the top portion, as well as a geometry of the channel 709.

In some embodiments, the cap SW support 710 can be cast onto the top portion 705. In one exemplary embodiment, the cap SW support 710 can be cast onto the top portion 705 by over-molding. In such embodiments, a mold is positioned on the top portion 705. The mold can allow the cap SW support material 710 to flow into the channel 709, such that the cap SW support 710 forms a compatible geometry with the channel 709. In such embodiments, wherein the channel comprises an interlock, the cavity can comprise a compatible interlock. As discussed above, the interlock further can ensure that the cap SW support remains in place during installation of the stick weight assembly within the shaft tip end and to ensure the SW support remains in place when the stick weight assembly is removed from the shaft tip end. As discussed above, the cavity interlock can be one or more projections, teeth, recesses, threads, or any other interlock feature.

The cap SW support 710 can further comprise a cap geometry that can allow the stick weight assembly 700 to be easily inserted into the shaft tip end 10 causing a press fit/pinch to hold the rod in place despite providing a smaller diameter over the shaft internal diameter. The cap SW support 710 can comprise a cap outer diameter, a cap inner diameter, a first portion 711, a second portion 712, and a thickness. The first portion 711 can comprise a dome to ensure easy insertion into the shaft 20. The second portion 712 can comprise a cylindrical body that can help ensure the stick weight assembly 700 is centered within the shaft 20. The cap outer diameter and cap inner diameters can vary to accommodate a variety of shaft internal diameters. The cap outer diameter and cap inner diameters further can be selected to ensure the cap SW support 710 fits tightly over the top portion 705 and within the shaft bore.

The cap outer diameter of the cap SW support 710 can be measured across the second end 715 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cap outer diameter can be between 0.15 inches and 0.45 inches. In some embodiments, the cap outer diameter can be between 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches, or between 0.40 inches and 0.45 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap outer diameter is 0.28 inches. The cap outer diameter can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the cap outer surface and the shaft inner surface. The cap SW support 710 applies a force against the shaft inner surface, thereby preventing the stick weight 730 from rattling and can remove the need for epoxy during the manufacturing process.

The cap inner diameter can be measured across the cavity 717 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cap inner diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the cap inner diameter can be between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, between or 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the cap inner diameter of the cavity is 0.22 inches. The cap inner diameter of the cavity can be sized to ensure a tight fit between the cap SW support 710 and the stick weight 730. The tension between the cap SW support 710 and the stick weight 730 can further prevent the rattling of the stick weight 730 within the shaft 20.

As stated above, the cap SW support 710 can comprise a first portion 711 and a second portion 712, wherein the first portion 711 comprises a dome and the second portion 712 comprises a cylindrical body. The first portion 711 can comprise a first portion height that can be measured from the bottom of the dome upwards to the first end. The first portion height can be between 0.05 inches and 0.35 inches. In some embodiments, the first portion height can be between 0.05 inches and 0.10 inches, between 0.10 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, or between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the first portion height is 0.14 inches.

Further, the second portion 712 can comprise a second portion height that can be measured from the bottom of the dome downwards to the second end. The second portion height can be between 0.10 inches and 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the second portion height can be between 0.10 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.20 inches, between 0.20 inches and 0.22 inches, between 0.22 inches and 0.24 inches, between 0.24 inches and 0.26 inches, between 0.26 inches and 0.28 inches, or between 0.28 inches and 0.30 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the second portion height is 0.16 inches.

As seen in FIG. 9C, the second portion can further comprise a plurality of ridges 713 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ridges”) projecting outwardly from the cap outer surface 716. The plurality of ridges 713 can be near the cap second end 715. The plurality ridges 713 can contact the inner surface of the shaft to provide further support to the stick weight 730. The plurality of ridges 713 can comprise between 2 ridges and 15 ridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 713 can range between 2 ridges and 6 ridges, between 6 ridges and 11 ridges, and between 11 ridges and 15 ridges. In one exemplary embodiment, the plurality of ridges 713 comprises 6 ridges.

The plurality of ridges 713 can comprise a ridge shape, wherein the ridge shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the plurality ridges perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ridge shape can be selected from the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses. The shape of the plurality of ridges 713 can provide space for air to escape and reduce the force necessary to insert the stick weight assembly 700 into the shaft tip end 10. The ridge shape further can allow the ridges 713 to easily compress if needed. The ability for the ridges 713 to compress can be desired to accommodate a variety of shaft diameters of golf. The compression of the ridges can permit use of the stick weight assembly 700 in a variety of shafts.

A ridge length can be measured from the cap second end 715 upwards to a ridge termination point, in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the cap SW support 710 can have ridges 713 of varying length. In other embodiments, the cap SW support 710 can have ridges 713 of a constant length. Regardless of whether the cap SW support 710 has ridges 713 of varying or constant length, the ridge length can be between 0.10 inches to 0.20 inches. In some embodiments, the ridge length can be between 0.10 inches and 0.11 inches, between 0.11 inches and 0.12 inches, between 0.12 inches and 0.13 inches, between 0.13 inches and 0.14 inches, between 0.14 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.16 inches, between 0.16 inches and 0.17 inches, between 0.17 inches and 0.18 inches, between 0.18 inches and 0.19 inches, or between 0.19 inches and 0.20 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the ridge length is 0.125 inches. In some embodiments, the ridges 713 can extend the total length of the second portion 712. In other embodiments, the ridges 713 can extend past the second portion 712 into the first portion 711. In other embodiments, the ridges 713 can extend into the second portion 712. The ridge length can dictate the amount of force the stick weight assembly 700 places on the shaft internal diameter.

As discussed above the cap SW support 710 can be formed from a flexible TPE material. In one exemplary embodiment the flexible TPE material can comprise a hardness of 60 shore A hardness. The cap SW support material can have a much greater elastic limit than the stick weight material. The cap SW support material can allow the cap SW support 710 to be compressed as the stick weight assembly 700 is inserted within the shaft tip end 10 and expand as the stick weight assembly 700 is pushed further into the shaft 20. The cap SW support material can also allow the ridges 713 to compress slightly when positioned within the shaft 20. The tight fit between the ridges 713 and the shaft 20 can provide support to the stick weight 730 and dampen the vibration produced at impact.

4. Integral Stick Weight and Stick Weight Support

Described herein is a stick weight assembly comprising a cylindrical stick weight with a dome at the top to allow for easy manufacturing and insertion, while providing a more secure fit within the shaft. The stick weight further can comprise ridges to touch the inner surface of the shaft, centering the weight. Referring to FIG. 10A-11B, the steel stick weight assembly 800 or 900 can comprise a stick weight 830 or 930 and a stick weight support 810 or 910 that are integral, such that the stick weight 830 or 930 and stick weight support 810 or 910 can be formed as one piece. This can allow the steel stick weight assembly 800 or 900 to be both easily inserted and removed, if necessary, from the shaft tip end 10. The ability to easily remove the steel stick weight assembly 800 or 900 from the tip of the shaft can allow for ease of use when the steel stick weight 830 or 930 is positioned within the shaft tip end 10 during the manufacturing process.

The stick weight 830 or 930 can comprise a cylindrical rod 803 or 903 herein “the rod” and a disk 804 or 904. The rod 803 or 903 can comprise a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end of the rod 803 or 903 can be coupled to the disk 804 or 904. The stick weight 830 or 930 can be received within the shaft 20 near the tip end such that the second end of the rod 803 or 903 is positioned within the shaft 20, and the disk 804 or 904 abuts the shaft tip end 10. The rod 803 or 903 can be fully encapsulated within the shaft 20, and the disk 804 or 904 can protrude from the shaft tip end 10.

The stick weight assembly 800 or 900 can comprise a weight. In some embodiments, the weight can be between 1 gram to 20 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be 1 gram, 2 grams, 3 grams, 4 grams, 5 grams, 6 grams, 7 grams, 8 grams, 9 grams, 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, 17 grams, 18 grams, 19 grams or 20 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be less than 20 grams, less than 15 grams, less than 10 grams, or less than 5 grams. While the size of the disk 804 or 904 can also impact the weight, it is less of a factor than the rod length. As discussed above, the rod length can be the key factor in the weight of the stick weight assembly 800 or 900, such that the longer the stick weight 830 or 930 is the greater the weight.

The rod length can directly correspond to the weight of the stick weight assembly 800 or 900, such that as the rod length increases, so does the weight. The rod 803 or 903 of the stick weight 830 or 930 can define a rod length, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft from the top end to the bottom end. The rod length can be between 0.60 inches and 2.10 inches. In some embodiments, the rod length can be between 0.60 inches and 0.70 inches, between 0.70 inches and 0.80 inches, between 0.80 inches and 0.90 inches, between 0.90 inches and 1.00 inches, between 1.00 inches and 1.10 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.20 inches, between 1.20 inches and 1.30 inches, between 1.30 inches and 1.40 inches, between 1.40 inches and 1.50 inches, between 1.50 inches and 1.60 inches, between 1.60 inches and 1.70 inches, between 1.70 inches and 1.80 inches, between 1.80 inches and 1.90 inches, between 1.90 inches and 2.00 inches, or between 2.00 inches and 2.10 inches. In some embodiments, the rod length can be below 2.00 inches, below 1.90 inches, below 1.80 inches, below 1.70 inches, below 1.60 inches, below 1.50 inches, below 1.40 inches, below 1.30 inches, below 1.20 inches, below 1.10 inches, below 1.00 inch, below 0.90 inches, below 0.80 inches, or below 0.70 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 1.02 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 1.79 inches.

The rod 803 or 903 can further define a rod diameter measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. In some embodiments, the rod diameter can be constant throughout the entirety of the of the rod. In these embodiments, the rod diameter can be between 0.275 inches and 0.300 inches. In some embodiments, the rod diameter can be between 0.275 inches and 0.280 inches, between 0.280 inches and 0.285 inches, between 0.290 inches and 0.295 inches, or between 0.295 inches and 0.300 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod diameter can be 0.288 inches. In another embodiment, the rod diameter can be variable such that the rod diameter is greatest at the center of the rod 803 or 903. In other embodiments, the rod diameter can be variable such that the diameter is greater towards the top end. The rod diameter can be sized to ensure the rod 803 or 903 can be easily positioned within the shaft tip end 10.

The top end of the rod can further comprise a dome 807 or 907. The dome 807 or 907 can facilitate insertion of the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 into the shaft 20. The dome 807 or 907 can comprise a dome shape, wherein the dome shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the dome parallel to the longitudinal axis. The dome shape can be selected from the group consisting of a half circle, a half ovel, a half ellipse, and a triangle. The aforementioned dome shape can ensure for a quick and easy insertion of the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 into the shaft tip end 10.

As discussed above, the disk 804 or 904 can be coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut the shaft tip end 10. The disk 804 or 904 can define a disk diameter, measured across a surface of the disk 804 or 904 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, or between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.35 inches.

The disk 804 or 904 can further define a disk thickness, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, the disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.050 inches, between 0.050 inches and 0.075 inches, and between 0.075 inches and 0.100 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness is 0.040 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness is 0.070 inches. As stated above, the disk 804 or 904 can be positioned outside the shaft 20, within the hosel bore, while the rod 803 or 903 and support feature are positioned within the shaft 20. The disk thickness can be sufficiently large to prevent the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 from being fully inserted into the shaft 20 by a distance greater than desired. This will provide ease of manufacturing and ensure the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 can be quickly and consistently positioned within the shaft bore.

In some embodiments, the disk 804 or 904 can further comprise a plurality of disk ribs 808 or 908 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ribs”). The plurality of disk ribs 808 or 908 can be positioned around the exterior of the disk 804 or 904, extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20. The plurality of disk ribs 808 or 908 can hold the stick weight 830 or 930 in the desired position. The plurality of disk ribs 808 or 908 can comprise between 2 ribs and 10 ribs. In some embodiments, the plurality of disk ribs 808 or 908 can range between 2 ribs and 4 ribs, between 4 ribs and 6 ribs, between 6 ribs and 8 ribs, and between 8 ribs and 10 ribs.

The plurality of disk ribs 808 or 908 can comprise a thickness, wherein the thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, the rib thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.015 inches, between 0.015 inches and 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 inches and 0.025 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rib thickness can be 0.008 inches. The rib thickness can be sufficiently small to avoid interference with the hosel bore internal surface when the shaft 20 is inserted into the hosel 40.

In some embodiments, the plurality of disk ribs 808 or 908 can extend solely along the thickness of the disk 804 or 904. In other embodiments, the disk ribs 808 or 908 can extend the thickness of the disk 804 or 904 and further into the bottom portion of the rod 803 or 903. The plurality of disk ribs 808 or 908 can define a length wherein the length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.050 inches. In some embodiments, the rib length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.035 inches, between 0.035 inches and 0.040 inches, between 0.040 inches and 0.045 inches, or between 0.045 inches and 0.050 inches.

a) Stick Weight Support

Described herein is a stick weight support that is integral to the stick weight rod. The integral stick weight support allows for easier manufacturing and insertion into the shaft. As shown in FIGS. 10A-10C and 11A-11B, the steel stick weight assembly 800 or 900 can comprise a stick weight support (hereafter known as “SW support”). The SW support can comprise a plurality of ridges 809 or 909, (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ridges”), wherein the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can be positioned along the rod 803 or 903 and/or along the disk 804 or 904. The plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can be positioned along the stick weight 830 or 930 and extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. Further, the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can project outward from the stick weight 830 or 930 towards the shaft inner surface.

In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can be continuous along the length of the steel stick weight 830 or 930. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can be positioned only on the rod 803 or 903. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can be positioned only on the disk 804 or 904. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can be discontinuous along the length of the steel stick weight 830 or 930. In such embodiments, each individual discontinuous ridge of the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can comprise a plurality of ridge segments.

The plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can contact the inner surface of the shaft 20 to provide further support to the stick weight 830 or 930. The plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can comprise between 2 ridges and 10 ridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can range between 2 ridges and 4 ridges, between 4 ridges and 6 ridges, between 6 ridges and 8 ridges, and between 8 ridges and 10 ridges.

In embodiments where the plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can be discontinuous, each individual ridge can comprise a plurality of ridge segments. The plurality of ridge segments can comprise between 2 ridge segments and 10 ridge segments. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridge segments can range between 2 ridge segments and 4 ridge segments, between 4 ridge segments and 6 ridge segments, between 6 ridge segments and 8 ridge segments, and between 8 ridge segments and 10 ridge segments. The plurality of ridge segments can provide support to the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 by providing support in the desired locations along the length of SW support.

Each ridge segment of the plurality of ridge segments can comprise a segment length. In some embodiments, the segment length can be constant. In other embodiments, the segment length can be variable. In some embodiments, the segment length can be between 0.05 inches and 1.00 inches. In some embodiments, the segment length can be between 0.05 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.35 inches, between 0.35 inches and 0.45 inches, between 0.45 inches and 0.55 inches, between 0.55 inches and 0.65 inches, between 0.65 inches and 0.75 inches, between 0.75 inches and 0.85 inches, between 0.85 inches and 0.95 inches, or between 0.95 inches and 1.00 inches. The length of each ridge segment can be selected to ensure the desired amount of support is provided between the stick weight 830 or 930 and the shaft 20 at different points along the length of the stick weight 830 or 930.

The plurality of ridges 809 or 909 can comprise a ridge shape, wherein the ridge shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the plurality of ridges perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ridge shape can be selected from the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses. The ridge shape can provide space for air to escape and reduce the force necessary to insert the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 into the shaft tip end 10. The ridge shape further can allow the ridges to easily compress if needed. The ability for the ridges 809 or 909 to compress can be desired to accommodate a variety inner shaft diameters. The compression of the ridges can facilitate the use of the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 with a variety of shafts. The ridges 809 or 909 can place an outward force against the internal surface, creating a press fit/pinch fit between the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 and the shaft inner surface and preventing the stick weight 830 or 930 from rattling.

As discussed above the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 can be formed from a soft, rubbery material. Further, the steel stick weight assembly 800 or 900 can be formed from injection molding a flexible TPE material with a hardness ranging from between 20 shore A hardness to 80 shore A hardness. The material can allow the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 to be compressed as the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 is inserted within the shaft tip end 10 and expands as the stick weight assembly 800 or 900 is pushed further into the shaft 20. The material also allows the ridges 809 or 909 to compress slightly when positioned within the shaft 20. The tight fit between the ridges 809 or 909 and the shaft 20 can provide support to the stick weight 830 or 930 and dampen the vibration produced at impact.

5. Multi-Material Integral Stick Weight and Stick Weight Support

Described herein is a stick weight assembly comprising a cylindrical stick weight with a dome at the top, manufactured from multiple materials. Having an integral stick weight and dome at the top can allow for easy manufacturing and insertion, while providing a more secure fit within the shaft. Further, using multiple materials can add additional mass to the stick weight, while still allowing it to be press fit into the shaft bore. Referring to FIG. 12A-12D, the steel stick weight assembly 1000 can comprise a stick weight 1030 and the stick weight support (hereafter “SW support”) can be integral, such that the stick weight 1030 and SW support can be formed as a monolithic unit. This can allow the steel stick weight assembly 1000 to be both easily be inserted and removed, if necessary, from the shaft tip end 10. The ability to easily remove the steel stick weight assembly 1000 from the tip of the shaft can allow for ease of use when the steel stick weight 1030 is positioned within the shaft tip end 10 during the manufacturing process.

The stick weight 1030 can comprise a cylindrical rod 1003 herein “the rod” and a disk 1004. The rod 1003 can comprise a top end and a bottom end. The bottom end of the rod 1003 can be coupled to the disk 1004. The stick weight 1030 can be received within the shaft 20 near the shaft tip end 10 such that the second end of the rod 1003 is positioned within the shaft and the disk 1004 abuts the shaft tip end 10. The rod 1003 can be fully encapsulated within the shaft 20, and the disk 1004 can protrude from the shaft tip end 10.

The stick weight assembly 1000 can comprise a weight. In some embodiments, the weight can be between 1 gram to 20 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be 1 gram, 2 grams, 3 grams, 4 grams, 5 grams, 6 grams, 7 grams, 8 grams, 9 grams, 10 grams, 11 grams, 12 grams, 13 grams, 14 grams, 15 grams, 16 grams, 17 grams, 18 grams, 19 grams or 20 grams. In some embodiments, the weight can be less than 20 grams, less than 15 grams, less than 10 grams, or less than 5 grams. While the size of the disk can also impact the weight, it is less of a factor than the rod length. The rod length can be the key factor in the weight of the stick weight assembly 1000.

The rod length can directly correspond to the weight of the stick weight assembly 1000, such that as the rod length increases, so does the weight. The rod 1003 of the stick weight 1030 can define a rod length, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20 from the top end to the bottom end. The rod length can be between 0.50 inches and 2.10 inches. In some embodiments, the rod length can be between 0.50 inches and 0.60 inches, between 0.60 inches and 0.70 inches, between 0.70 inches and 0.80 inches, between 0.80 inches and 0.90 inches, between 0.90 inches and 1.00 inch, between 1.00 inch and 1.10 inches, between 1.10 inches and 1.20 inches, between 1.20 inches and 1.30 inches, 1.30 inches and 1.40 inches, 1.40 inches and 1.50 inches, 1.50 inches and 1.60 inches, 1.60 inches and 1.70 inches, 1.70 inches and 1.80 inches, 1.80 inches and 1.90 inches, 1.90 inches and 2.00 inches, or 2.00 inches and 2.10 inches. In some embodiments, the rod length can be below 2.00 inches, below 1.90 inches, below 1.80 inches, below 1.70 inches, below 1.60 inches, below 1.50 inches, below 1.40 inches, below 1.30 inches, below 1.20 inches, below 1.10 inches, below 1.00 inch, below 0.90 inches, below 0.80 inches, or below 0.70 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 0.85 inches. In another exemplary embodiment, the rod length is 1.80 inches.

The rod 1003 can further define a rod diameter measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. In some embodiments, the rod diameter can be constant throughout the entirety of the of the rod 1003. In these embodiments, the rod diameter can be between 0.275 inches and 0.300 inches. In some embodiments, the rod diameter can be between 0.275 inches and 0.280 inches, between 0.280 inches and 0.285 inches, between 0.290 inches and 0.295 inches, or between 0.295 inches and 0.300 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rod diameter can be 0.288 inches. In another embodiment, the rod diameter can be variable such that the rod diameter is greatest at the center of the rod 1003. In other embodiments, the rod diameter can be variable such that the rod diameter is greater towards the top end. In other embodiments, the rod diameter can be variable such that the rod diameter is greater towards the bottom end. The rod diameter can be selected to ensure the rod 1003 can be easily positioned within the shaft tip end 10, while still ensuring a plurality of ridges 1009, as discussed below, can engage the shaft inner surface.

The top end of the rod 1003 can further comprise a dome 1007. The dome facilitates insertion of the stick weight assembly 1000 into the shaft 20 during the manufacturing process. The dome 1007 can comprise a dome shape, wherein the dome shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the dome structure perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The dome shape can be selected from the group consisting of a half circle, a half ovel, a half ellipse, and a triangle. The aforementioned dome shape can ensure for a quick and easy insertion of the stick weight assembly 1000 into the shaft tip end 10.

The steel stick weight assembly 1000 can further comprise a plurality of holes 1010 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the holes”), wherein the plurality of holes 1010 is positioned at locations along the length of the rod 1003. The positioning of the plurality of holes 1010 can provide support and ensure the stick weight assembly 1000 remains centered during the entirety of the injection molding process, as discussed in depth below. The plurality of holes 1010 can comprise between 2 holes and 10 holes. In some embodiments, the plurality of holes 1010 can range between 2 holes and 4 holes, between 4 holes and 6 holes, between 6 holes and 8 holes, and between 8 holes and 10 holes. The plurality of holes 1010 can be centered along the longitudinal axis and extend entirely through the stick weight assembly 1000 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

As discussed above, the disk 1004 can be coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut the shaft tip end 10. The disk 1004 can define a disk diameter, measured across a surface of the disk 1004 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the disk diameter can be between 0.20 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.30 inches, between 0.30 inches and 0.35 inches, or between 0.35 inches and 0.40 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk diameter is 0.35 inches.

The disk 1004 can further define a disk thickness, measured along the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.100 inches. In some embodiments, the disk thickness can be between 0.020 inches and 0.050 inches, between 0.050 inches and 0.075 inches, and between 0.075 inches and 0.100 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the disk thickness 0.040 inches. As stated above, the disk 1004 can be positioned outside the shaft 20, within the hosel bore, while the rod 1003 and support feature are positioned within the shaft 20. The disk thickness can be sufficiently large to prevent insertion of the stick weight assembly 1000 into the shaft 20 by a distance greater than desired. This will provide ease of manufacturing and ensure the stick weight assembly 1000 can be quickly and consistently positioned within the shaft bore.

In some embodiments, the disk 1004 can further comprise a plurality of disk ribs 1008 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the disk ribs”). The plurality of disk ribs 1008 can be positioned around the exterior of the disk 1004, extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 20. The plurality of disk ribs 1008 can act as an additional support means to hold the stick weight 1030 in the desired position. The plurality of disk ribs 1008 can comprise between 2 ribs and 10 ribs. In some embodiments, the plurality of disk ribs 1008 can range between 2 ribs and 4 ribs, between 4 ribs and 6 ribs, between 6 ribs and 8 ribs, and between 8 ribs and ribs.

The plurality of disk ribs 1008 can comprise a thickness, wherein the thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.025 inches. In some embodiments, the rib thickness can be between 0.010 inches and 0.015 inches, between 0.015 inches and 0.020 inches, or between 0.020 inches and 0.025 inches. In one exemplary embodiment, the rib thickness can be 0.008 inches. The rib thickness can be sufficiently small enough to not interfere with the hosel bore internal surface when the shaft 20 is inserted into the hosel 40.

In some embodiments, the plurality of disk ribs 1008 can extend solely along the thickness of the disk 1004. In other embodiments, the disk ribs 1008 can extend the thickness of the disk 1004 and further into the bottom portion of the rod 1003. The plurality of disk ribs 1008 can define a length wherein the length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.050 inches. In some embodiments, the rib length can be between 0.030 inches and 0.035 inches, between 0.035 inches and 0.040 inches, between 0.040 inches and 0.045 inches, or between 0.045 inches and 0.050 inches.

a) Another Alternative Integral Stick Weight Support

Described herein is a stick weight support that is integral to the stick weight rod. The integral stick weight support allows for easier manufacturing and insertion into the shaft. As shown in FIGS. 12A-12D, the steel stick weight assembly 1000 can comprise a stick weight support (hereafter known as “SW support”). The SW support can comprise a plurality of ridges 1009 (hereafter alternatively referred to as “the ridges”), wherein the plurality of ridges 1009 can be positioned along the rod 1003 and/or along the disk 1004. The plurality of ridges 1009 can be positioned along the stick weight 1030 and extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. Further, the plurality of ridges 1009 can project outward from the stick weight 1030 towards the shaft inner surface.

In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 1009 can be continuous along the length of the stick weight 1030. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 1009 can be positioned only on the rod 1003. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 1009 can be positioned only on the disk 1004. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 1009 can be discontinuous along the length of the stick weight 1030. In such embodiments, the plurality of ridges 1009 can comprise rib segments, such that a plurality of rib segments can make up each individual rib of the plurality of ridges.

The plurality of ridges 1009 can act as additional support means to hold the stick weight 1030 in the desired position. The plurality of ridges 1009 can comprise between 2 ridges and ridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 1009 can range between 2 ridges and 4 ridges, between 4 ridges and 6 ridges, between 6 ridges and 8 ridges, and between 8 ridges and 10 ridges.

In embodiments where the plurality of ridges 1009 can be discontinuous, each individual ridge can comprise a plurality of ridge segments. The plurality of ridge segments can comprise between 2 ridge segments and 10 ridge segments. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges can range between 2 ridge segments and 4 ridge segments, between 4 ridge segments and 6 ridge segments, between 6 ridge segments and 8 ridge segments, and between 8 ridge segments and 10 ridge segments. The plurality of ridge segments can provide support to the stick weight assembly by providing support in the desired locations along the length of SW support.

Each ridge segment of the plurality of ridge segments can comprise a segment length. In some embodiments, the segment length can be constant. In other embodiments, the segment length can be variable. In some embodiments, the segment length can be between 0.05 inches and 1.00 inches. In some embodiments, the segment length can be between 0.05 inches and 0.15 inches, between 0.15 inches and 0.25 inches, between 0.25 inches and 0.35 inches, between 0.35 inches and 0.45 inches, between 0.45 inches and 0.55 inches, between 0.55 inches and 0.65 inches, between 0.65 inches and 0.75 inches, between 0.75 inches and 0.85 inches, between 0.85 inches and 0.95 inches, or between 0.95 inches and 1.00 inches. The length of each ridge segment can be selected to ensure the desired amount of support is provided between the stick weight and the shaft at different points along the length of the stick weight.

The plurality of ridges 1009 can comprise a ridge shape, wherein the ridge shape can be viewed as the cross-section of the plurality of ridges perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The ridge shape can be selected from the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses. The ridge shape can provide space for air to escape and reduce the force necessary to insert the stick weight assembly 1000 into the shaft tip end 10. The ridge shape further can allow the ridges 1009 to easily compress if needed. The ability for the ridges 1009 to compress can be desired since the inner diameter of golf club shafts can vary so drastically. The compression of the ridges 1009 can allow for the application of the stick weight assembly 1000 in a variety of shafts.

In one embodiment, the stick weight assembly 1000 can be formed from a soft, rubbery material. Further, the stick weight assembly 1000 can be formed from injection molding a flexible TPE material from between 20 shore A hardness to 80 shore A hardness. In some embodiments the hardness can be between 30 shore A hardness and 40 shore A hardness, between 40 shore A hardness and 50 shore A hardness, between 50 shore A hardness and 60 shore A hardness, between 60 shore A hardness and 70 shore A hardness, or between 70 shore A hardness and 80 shore A hardness. The material can allow the stick weight assembly 1000 to be compressed as the stick weight assembly 1000 is inserted within the shaft tip end 10 and expand as the stick weight assembly 1000 is pushed further into the shaft 20. The material also allows the ridges 1009 to compress slightly when positioned with the shaft 20. The tight fit between the ridges 1009 and the shaft 20 can provide support to the stick weight 1030 and dampen the vibration produced at impact.

In other embodiments, the steel stick weight assembly 1000 can be formed from two separate materials, wherein an outer portion 1041 is formed from a soft, rubbery material similar to that as discussed above, and an inner portion 1040 is formed from a metal. In such embodiments the outer portion 1041 can be cast onto the inner portion 1040. The plurality of holes 1010, as discussed above have allow the inner portion 1040 to remain centered within the mold during the casting process.

The outer portion 1041 can comprise a material with an outer portion density and the inner portion 1040 can comprise a material with an inner portion density. The outer portion density can be less than the inner portion density. The use of the two different materials can allow for the ability to increase the mass of the stick weight assembly 1000 while still providing the advantages of a softer material, as discussed above.

The aforementioned stick weight assembly allows for the ability to reliably implement stick weights in a variety of shafts while preventing any undesirable vibrations within the shaft. The ability to reliably implement stick weights can allow stick weight to more easily be used in production setting, thereby decreasing the time and cost of production. Further, the ability to reliably implement stick weights can allow for a larger bonding area for the epoxy to secure the tip of the shaft within the hosel. The increased bonding area can further allow for the ability to decrease the height of the hosel, saving weight in that area and allow the weight to be distributed into different areas of the club head. The ability to redistribute the weight can decrease the club head center of gravity (CG), increasing the launch angle and reducing backspin.

I. EXAMPLES 1. Example 1

Example 1 provides a comparison between the traditional graphite stick and the new graphite stick weight and a comparison between the traditional steel stick weight and the new steel stick weights. More specifically, Example 1 illustrates comparative results related to the dimensions between a variety of new and traditional stick weight assemblies, as shown below in Table 1 and Table 2.

Described herein are a traditional graphite embodiment (hereafter known as TGE) 100, a traditional steel embodiment (hereafter known as TSE) 200, a first graphite embodiment (hereafter known as FGE) 300, a first steel embodiment (hereafter known as FSE) 500, a second steel embodiment (hereafter known as SSE) 600, a third steel embodiment (hereafter known as ThSE) 700, a fourth steel embodiment (FoSE) 800, a fifth steel embodiment (FiSE) 900, a sixth steel embodiment (SiSE), and a seventh steel embodiment (SeSE) 1000. A direct comparison between the traditional stick weight assemblies and the exemplary embodiment stick weight assemblies can be seen in the tables below.

TABLE 1 Traditional Graphite Stick Weight Assembly Vs. First Exemplary Graphite Stick Weight Assembly Traditional Graphite First Graphite Embodiment Embodiment Rod Length 2.18 inches 2.11 inches Weight 1 to 8 grams 1 to 8 grams Diameter 0.12 inches 0.12 inches Disk Diameter 0.32 inches 0.32 inches Disk Thickness 0.07 inches 0.07 inches

Table 1 depicts the differences between the TGE and the FGE. The FGE has similar dimensions and physical characteristics to the TGE. The dimensions depicted in table 1 do not include any support features. While the FGE is very similar to the TGE in terms of its dimensions, the FGE also comprises a support feature which adds to both the length and the width of the stick weight assembly. The added length and width help to secure the stick weight assembly within the shaft.

TABLE 2 Traditional Steel Stick Weight Assembly Vs. All Steel Stick Weight Assembly TGE FSE SSE ThSE Rod Length 1.85 inches 0.97 inch 0.97 inch 0.97 inch Weight 2.15 to 18 grams 1 to 9 grams 1 to 9 grams 1 to 9 grams Top Diameter 0.318 inch 0.22 inch 0.22 inch 0.22 inch Bottom 0.28 inch 0.28 inch 0.28 inch Diameter Disk Diameter 0.35 inch 0.32 inch 0.32 inch 0.32 inch Disk Thickness 0.042 inch 0.040 inch 0.040 inch 0.040 inch FoSE FiSE SiSE SeSE Rod Length 0.93 inch 1.02 inches 1.79 inches 0.85 inch Weight 1 to 22 grams 1 to 18 grams 1 to 18 grams 1 to 18 grams Top Diameter 0.28 inch 0.28 inch 0.28 inch Bottom 0.28 inch Diameter Disk Diameter 0.32 inch 0.35 inch 0.35 inch 0.35 inch Disk Thickness 0.040 inch 0.040 inch 0.040 inch 0.04 inch

Table 2 depicts the differences between the TSE and several steel embodiments. The dimensions of the several steel embodiments are similar to those of the TSE. The main differences between the steel embodiments are the changes in rod length and the disparity between the weight of the embodiments. The rod lengths of the new steel embodiments are approximately 1 inch shorter than the old steel embodiments. The changes in the rod length lead to differences in the weight of the embodiment. The new steel embodiments weight approximately 75% of the old steel embodiment weights. Even though the new steel embodiments were only able to achieve 75% of the weight saved by the old steel embodiments, the drastic improvement in durability, as discussed in depth below in Example 2, allows for the ability to successfully implement the new steel embodiments. The ability to successfully implement the new steel embodiments further allows for the shortening of the hosel. As discussed above the outer diameter of the hosel can be decreased by up to 0.020 inches and the height of the hosel can be decreased by up to 0.180 inches. These changes in hosel dimensions can save up to 13 grams of mass. The saved mass can then be redistributed thought the club head as desired to improve performance characteristics, such as increasing MOI and decreasing the CG_(y). The increase in MOI can lead to a more consistent forgiving golf club head and the decrease in CG_(y) can lead to a higher lofted shot with less spin.

2. Example 2: Graphite Stick Weight Durability Test

Example 2 illustrates comparative results related to a test graphite embodiment comprising a support feature and a control graphite embodiment not comprising a support feature. Described herein is a test graphite embodiment, having a similar structure as the control graphite embodiment. The test graphite embodiment differs from the control graphite embodiment in that it comprises a support feature in the form of a cap. The cap is 0.35 inch tall, and 0.18 inch wide. The control graphite embodiment does not comprise a cap. Both the test graphite embodiment and the control graphite embodiment are 2.11 inches tall. An extreme temperature test was done on both the test graphite embodiment and the control graphite embodiment. The extreme temperature test consists of building five clubs and placing them into the freezer until they reach an approximate temperature of 9 degrees Fahrenheit. After that, one club is removed from the freezer and 30 shots are hit with the club, taking between 12 to 15 minutes to hit the shots. Once 30 shots have been reached, the club is then placed into the oven where it will stay until it reaches a temperature of approximately 189 degrees Fahrenheit. After it has reached temperature, it is taken out of the oven and 30 shots are hit with the club. A direct comparison of the results can be found in the tables below.

TABLE 3 Test graphite embodiment results Total Hits - Total Hits - Cold Cold Hot Hot Cold Hot Failure Start End Start End Pass Fail Pass Fail Information 1 9.0 63.4 188.6 94.6 30 0 30 0 2 9.6 62.6 189.0 95.0 30 0 30 0 3 9.4 63.4 188.8 95.8 30 0 30 0 4 9.0 63.0 191.2 96.4 30 0 30 0 5 8.0 62.0 189.2 95.2 30 0 30 0

TABLE 4 Control graphite embodiment results Total Total Cold Cold Hot Hot Hits - Cold Hits - Hot Failure Start End Start End Pass Fail Pass Fail Information 1 6.2 62.0 186.8 105.6 30 0 0 29 Weight rattle within the cold phase failed within the hot phase 2 7.2 62.6 189.6 106.4 30 0 0 20 Weight rattle within the cold phase twisted within the hot phase 3 6.4 62.4 30 0 Weights failed after the cold 4 7.4 62.8 30 0 was completed 5 7.0 62.6 30 0

The test graphite embodiment went through both the cold temperatures and the hot temperatures with no breakages through impact. The control graphite embodiment had only 2 of the 5 clubs reach the hot temperature stage. Of those 2 clubs, neither of them completed the hot temperature stage without breaking.

The first graphite stick weight assembly, when compared to the second graphite stick weight assembly, has a 100% pass rate for the extreme temperature test. The inclusion of a support feature, in this instance a cap, means that the stick weight is stabilized within the shaft and will not rattle during a golf swing.

3. Example 3: Comparative Results Between a Club with a Tip Weight and a Club with a Stick Weight

Example 3 illustrates comparative results between a control golf club head comprising a tip weight (hereafter referred to as “the control golf club head”) and a test iron with a steel stick weight (hereafter referred to as “the test golf club head”). As described above, the tip weight is a short cylindrical weight, that is positioned within the hosel and abuts the shaft tip end. Further, as described above, the stick weight is a long, thin, cylindrical weight located mostly within the shaft, similar to FIG. 6B. The use of stick weight as opposed to the tip weight can allow for the ability shorten the hosel.

Described herein is a test iron and a control iron comprising similar structures. The test golf club head differs from the control golf club head in that it comprises a stick weight within the shaft instead of a tip weight positioned within the hosel bore. This stick weight allows for the design of the hosel to be shortened as the stick weight assembly can be in the shaft, as outlined below. The control golf club head has a hosel outer diameter of 0.540 inches and a hosel height of 1.93 inches. In comparison, the test golf club head has a hosel outer diameter of 0.520 inches and a hosel height of 1.75 inches, resulting in a difference of 0.020 inches for the hosel outer diameter and a difference of 0.180 inches for the hosel height. The difference in dimensions, results in mass savings of approximately 9 grams between the test golf club head and the control golf club head. In the test club, the saved mass can then be redistributed to other areas of the golf club, providing the ability to lower the CG relative to the Y-axis leading to an increase in ball speed.

A test was conducted to determine differences in ball speed, carry distance, and offline distance (i.e the distance left/right of the intended target line) at different impact points across the club face. The test consisted of hitting 5 shots at each impact point across the club face (done by robot for accuracy and repeatability). The impact point was set before the robot swung the club. For Table 5, the impact locations were taken from the leading edge moving towards the crown and in the center of the club in a heel to toe direction. For Table 6, the impact locations change across the face and are outlined below in Table 7. In Table 7, the center of the club face refers to the center of the club in a heel to toe direction. It was determined that 85% of shots are hit within 0.800 inches of the lead edge, therefore only those shots were considered for this test.

TABLE 5 Ball Speed of the Test Golf Club VS the Control Golf Club (mph) Distance from lead 0.30 0.40 0.50 0.60 0.70 0.80 edge inches inches inches inches inches inches Average Test Golf 116.4 118.5 120.1 121.4 121.7 120.2 119.72 Club Control 117.7 119.8 121.2 121.9 121.1 118.9 120.1 Golf Club

TABLE 6 Carry Distance of the Test Golf Club VS the Control Golf Club (yards) Low Low Low Toe Toe Center Center Heel Heel Average Test Golf 160.2 161.8 162 166.4 161 166.3 162.95 Club Control 164.1 166.2 167.7 170.3 166 170 167.34 Golf Club

TABLE 7 Impact Locations for Table 6 Inches from Inches from Inches from Center of Club Face Center of Club Face Lead Edge in Toe direction in Heel direction Toe 0.60 0.50 0.00 Low Toe 0.35 0.25 0.00 Low Center 0.35 0.00 0.00 Center 0.60 0.00 0.00 Low Heel 0.35 0.00 0.25 Heel 0.60 0.00 0.50

As shown in Table 5, the ball speed of the test golf club head with the stick weight and shortened hosel, is approximately 1 MPH quicker than the control golf club head, this is due the shorter hosel length lowering CG of the Y axis. A lower CG of the Y axis can decrease spin in the ball and leads to further carry distance. As shown in Table 6, the test golf club head, with the stick weight and the shortened hosel, saw carry distance increase by an average of 4.39 yards across the different impact locations specified in Table 7.

As discussed above, the addition of the stick weight instead of the tip weight allows for the ability to decrease the hosel dimensions, as mentioned above. The ability to decrease the hosel dimensions can allow for a saving of up to 9 grams of mass that can then be distributed throughout the golf club head as desired. This can allow for the ability to decrease the CG, leading to an overall increase in ball speed and therefore an increase in carry distance.

4. Example 4: Traditional Vs. New

Example 4 illustrates the comparison of assembly procedures between the traditional stick weight assembly and the stick weight assemblies described above. The traditional stick weight assembly contains multiple steps that use epoxy which results in wastage of epoxy and more steps in the assembly of the club. The new stick weight assemblies reduce the wastage of epoxy by reducing the amount of steps it is needed in.

The traditional stick weight assembly procedure comprised (1) providing a stick weight (2) providing epoxy (3) dispensing epoxy onto a block (4) rolling the stick weight in epoxy (5) providing a shaft (6) inserting the stick weight into the shaft (7) dispensing epoxy onto the end of the shaft (8) providing a golf club head with a hosel (9) dispensing epoxy into the hosel (10) placing the shaft into the hosel of the golf club head (11) wiping the excess epoxy off of the combined golf club hosel and shaft.

The new stick weight assembly procedure is (1) providing a stick weight (2) providing a support feature (3) placing the support feature on the stick weight to create a stick weight assembly (4) providing a shaft (5) inserting the stick weight assembly into the shaft tip end (6) providing epoxy (7) providing a club head (8) placing the epoxy into the hosel portion of the club head (9) placing the shaft tip end into the hosel area of club head.

In comparison, the new assembly procedure contains nine steps and the traditional assembly procedure contains 11 steps. Of those nine steps only 2 of them pertain to epoxy, whereas with the 11 steps of the traditional assembly procedure, 5 of them pertain to epoxy. This is a change from 45% of the overall procedure being related to epoxy, to now only 22% of the overall procedure relates to epoxy. There is now less epoxy being used and therefore less epoxy being wasted. The new stick weight assembly process is easier and cheaper.

Clauses

Clause 1. A stick weight assembly for use within a shaft of a golf club, wherein the shaft includes a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, the stick weight assembly comprising: a stick weight comprising: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top end and a rod bottom end, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top end geometry; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the rod top end.

Clause 2. The stick weight assembly of clause 1, wherein the top end of the rod defines an outer top end geometry; a cavity defines a cavity geometry complementary to the outer top end geometry.

Clause 3. The stick weight assembly of clause 1, wherein the stick weight assembly is configured to be positioned within a hollow graphite shaft.

Clause 4. The stick weight assembly of clause 2 wherein the stick weight assembly is positioned at a tip end of the shaft.

Clause 5. The stick weight assembly of clause 1, wherein the stick weigh support comprises a material selected from the group consisting of Thermoplastic Styrene block copolymers (TPS or TPE-s), Thermoplastic polyolefinelastomers (TPO or TPE-o), and Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV or TPE-v).

Clause 6. The stick weight assembly of clause 1, wherein the rod comprises a length below 2.70 inches.

Clause 7. The stick weight assembly of clause 1, wherein the rod comprises a rod diameter between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches.

Clause 8. The stick weight assembly of clause 1, wherein the stick weight comprises a material selected from a group consisting of aluminium, aluminium alloy, stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, tungsten, or tungsten alloy.

Clause 9. The stick weight assembly of clause 1, wherein the disk comprises a thickness between 0.025 inches and 0.125 inches.

Clause 10. The stick weight assembly of clause 1, wherein the disk comprises a disk diameter between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches.

Clause 11. The stick weight assembly of clause 2, wherein the stick weight assembly is permanently positioned partially within a tip end of the shaft.

Clause 12. A golf club comprising: a club head, a shaft comprising a shaft bore, a grip, a hosel comprising a hosel bore, and a stick weight assembly comprising a stick weight and a stick weight support; wherein, the stick weight comprises: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top end and a rod bottom end, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top end geometry; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; wherein: the plurality of ridges comprise a ridge shape selected the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the top end of the rod.

Clause 13. The stick weight assembly of clause 12, wherein the top end of the rod defines an outer top end geometry; a cavity defines a cavity geometry complementary to the outer tope end geometry.

Clause 14. The stick weight assembly of clause 12, wherein the stick weight assembly is permanently positioned partially within a tip end of the shaft.

Clause 15. The stick weight assembly of clause 12, wherein the stick weight support comprises a material selected from the group consisting of Thermoplastic Styrene block copolymers (TPS or TPE-s), Thermoplastic polyolefinelastomers (TPO or TPE-o), and Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV or TPE-v).

Clause 16. The stick weight assembly of clause 12, wherein the stick weight comprises a material selected from a group consisting of aluminium, aluminium alloy, stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, tungsten, or tungsten alloy.

Clause 17. The stick weight assembly of clause 12, wherein the rod comprises a length below 2.70 inches.

Clause 18. The stick weight assembly of clause 12, wherein the rod comprises a rod diameter between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches.

Clause 19. The stick weight assembly of clause 12, wherein the disk comprises a thickness between 0.025 inches and 0.125 inches.

Clause 20. The stick weight assembly of clause 12, wherein the disk comprises a disk diameter between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches.

Clause 21. A stick weight assembly for use within a shaft of a golf club, wherein the shaft includes a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, the stick weight assembly comprising: a stick weight comprising: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top end, rod top portion and a rod bottom portion, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top end geometry, and a hole located proximate the rod top portion; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; a retainer sized for insertion into the hole; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the rod top end.

Clause 22. The stick weight assembly of clause 21, wherein the hole can extend through the entirety of the rod top portion.

Clause 23. The stick weight assembly of clause 21, wherein the cap SW support material fills the entirety of the hole and forms the retainer.

Clause 24. The stick weight assembly of clause 21, wherein the cap SW support material fills a portion of the hole and forms the retainer.

Clause 25. The stick weight assembly of clause 21, wherein the retainer comprises a retainer diameter; and the retainer diameter is between 0.05 inches and 0.10 inches.

Clause 26. A golf club comprising: a club head, a shaft comprising a shaft bore, a grip, a hosel comprising a hosel bore, and a stick weight assembly comprising a stick weight and a stick weight support; wherein, the stick weight comprises: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top end, rod top portion and a rod bottom portion, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top portion geometry; and a hole located proximate the rod top portion; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; a retainer sized for insertion into the hole; wherein: the plurality of ridges comprise a ridge shape selected the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the top end of the rod.

Clause 27. A stick weight assembly for use within a shaft of a golf club, wherein the shaft includes a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, the stick weight assembly comprising: a stick weight comprising: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top portion and a rod bottom portion, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top end geometry, and a channel located proximate the rod top portion; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the rod top end.

Clause 28. The stick weight assembly of clause 27, wherein the channel can be recessed into the rod top portion.

Clause 29. The stick weight assembly of clause 27, wherein the channel comprises a first wall and a second wall; wherein the first wall and second wall are equal in height.

Clause 30. The stick weight assembly of clause 27, wherein the channel comprises an interlock; wherein the interlock is selected from the group consisting of one or more projections, teeth, recesses, and threads.

Clause 31. The stick weight assembly of clause 30, wherein the interlock protrudes from the first wall.

Clause 32. The stick weight assembly of clause 30, wherein the interlock protrudes from the second wall.

Clause 33. A golf club comprising: a club head, a shaft comprising a shaft bore, a grip, a hosel comprising a hosel bore, and a stick weight assembly comprising a stick weight and a stick weight support; wherein, the stick weight comprises: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top end, rod top portion and a rod bottom portion, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top portion geometry; and a channel located proximate the rod top portion; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; wherein: the plurality of ridges comprise a ridge shape selected the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the top end of the rod.

Clause 34. A stick weight assembly for use within a shaft of a golf club, wherein the shaft includes a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, the stick weight assembly comprising: a stick weight comprising: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top portion and a rod bottom portion, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top end geometry, and one or more apertures located on the rod; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; an inner portion; an outer portion; and an integral stick weight support.

Clause 35. The stick weight assembly of clause 34, wherein the inner portion comprises a first material and the outer portion comprises a second material.

Clause 36. The stick weight assembly of clause 35, wherein the first material and the second material are different.

Clause 37. The stick weight assembly of clause 34, wherein the inner portion comprises an inner portion density and the outer portion comprises an outer portion density.

Clause 38. The stick weight assembly of clause 37, wherein the outer portion density is less than the inner portion density.

Clause 39. The stick weight assembly of clause 34, wherein the disk comprises two or more disk ribs.

Clause 40. A stick weight assembly for use within a shaft of a golf club, wherein the shaft includes a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, the stick weight assembly comprising: a stick weight comprising: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top end and a rod bottom end, a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft, a first fin positioned near the rod top end and a second fin positioned near the rod bottom end, wherein the first fin comprises a first fin outer diameter and the second fin comprises a second fin outer diameter, wherein the first fin outer diameter and second fin outer diameter corresponds to a shaft internal diameter.

Clause 41. The stick weight assembly of clause 40, wherein the first fin comprises a first fin top surface and a first fin bottom surface; wherein the second fin comprises a second fin top surface and a second fin bottom surface.

Clause 42. The stick weight assembly of clause 41, wherein the first fin top surface is tapered relative to the first fin bottom surface; wherein the second fin top surface is tapered relative to the second fin bottom surface.

Clause 43. The stick weight assembly of clause 41, wherein the first find top surface is parallel to the first fin bottom surface; wherein the second fin top surface is parallel to the second fin bottom surface.

Clause 44. The stick weight assembly of clause 40, wherein the first fin and second fin comprise a partial slit.

Clause 45. The stick weight assembly of clause 40, wherein the first fin and second fin are integrally formed with the rod.

Replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to ocm3ur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are stated in such claim.

Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents. 

1. A stick weight assembly for use within a shaft of a golf club, wherein the shaft includes a shaft inner surface defining a shaft bore, the stick weight assembly comprising: a stick weight comprising: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top end and a rod bottom end, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top end geometry; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the rod top end.
 2. The stick weight assembly of claim 1, wherein the top end of the rod defines an outer top end geometry; a cavity defines a cavity geometry complementary to the outer top end geometry.
 3. The stick weight assembly of claim 1, wherein the stick weight assembly is configured to be positioned within a hollow graphite shaft.
 4. The stick weight assembly of claim 2 wherein the stick weight assembly is positioned at a tip end of the shaft.
 5. The stick weight assembly of claim 1, wherein the stick weigh support comprises a material selected from the group consisting of Thermoplastic Styrene block copolymers (TPS or TPE-s), Thermoplastic polyolefinelastomers (TPO or TPE-o), and Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV or TPE-v).
 6. The stick weight assembly of claim 1, wherein the rod comprises a length below 2.70 inches.
 7. The stick weight assembly of claim 1, wherein the rod comprises a rod diameter between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches.
 8. The stick weight assembly of claim 1, wherein the stick weight comprises a material selected from a group consisting of aluminium, aluminium alloy, stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, tungsten, or tungsten alloy.
 9. The stick weight assembly of claim 1, wherein the disk comprises a thickness between 0.025 inches and 0.125 inches.
 10. The stick weight assembly of claim 1, wherein the disk comprises a disk diameter between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches.
 11. The stick weight assembly of claim 2, wherein the stick weight assembly is permanently positioned partially within a tip end of the shaft.
 12. A golf club comprising: a club head, a shaft comprising a shaft bore, a grip, a hosel comprising a hosel bore, and a stick weight assembly comprising a stick weight and a stick weight support; wherein: the stick weight comprising: a rod sized for insertion into the shaft bore, the rod having a rod top end and a rod bottom end, wherein the rod top end defines an outer top end geometry; a disk coupled to the rod bottom end and sized to abut a tip end of the shaft; and a stick weight support comprising: a first end; a second end; a first portion having an outer surface defining a dome wherein the dome is sized for insertion into the shaft; a second portion coupled to the first portion comprises an outer surface and a plurality of ridges projecting outward from the outer surface and sized to engage the shaft inner surface; wherein: the plurality of ridges comprise a ridge shape selected the group consisting of triangles, half circles, and ellipses; wherein the stick weight support defines a cavity extending from the second end towards the first end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the top end of the rod.
 13. The stick weight assembly of claim 12, wherein the top end of the rod defines an outer top end geometry; a cavity defines a cavity geometry complementary to the outer tope end geometry.
 14. The stick weight assembly of claim 12, wherein the stick weight assembly is permanently positioned partially within a tip end of the shaft.
 15. The stick weight assembly of claim 12, wherein the stick weight support comprises a material selected from the group consisting of Thermoplastic Styrene block copolymers (TPS or TPE-s), Thermoplastic polyolefinelastomers (TPO or TPE-o), and Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV or TPE-v).
 16. The stick weight assembly of claim 12, wherein the stick weight comprises a material selected from a group consisting of aluminium, aluminium alloy, stainless steel, stainless steel alloy, tungsten, or tungsten alloy.
 17. The stick weight assembly of claim 12, wherein the rod comprises a length below 2.70 inches.
 18. The stick weight assembly of claim 12, wherein the rod comprises a rod diameter between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches.
 19. The stick weight assembly of claim 12, wherein the disk comprises a thickness between 0.025 inches and 0.125 inches.
 20. The stick weight assembly of claim 12, wherein the disk comprises a disk diameter between 0.20 inches and 0.40 inches. 